Disruptions to sea exports push waiting times at Ukraine–Poland border to 7–9 days

Restrictions on Ukrainian seaport operations and Russian attacks on logistics infrastructure have significantly increased pressure on overland export routes. As a result, the total waiting time for crossing the Ukraine–Poland border has risen to 7–9 days, compared with 2–3 days previously. This was reported by Deputy Minister for Infrastructure Restoration and Transport Serhii Derkach during the Ekonomichna Pravda Export Forum.

According to Derkach, the situation at other sections of Ukraine’s western border remains somewhat better, although overall pressure on road transport has increased considerably. With maritime logistics capacity constrained, more cargo flows are being redirected to overland routes, putting additional pressure on the capacity of border crossings. Border delays are affecting not only exports but also imports, particularly fuel supplies.

Logistics restrictions are particularly challenging for Ukraine’s agricultural sector, which relies heavily on maritime shipments of grains and oilseeds. According to previously published estimates by Nibulon, Ukraine’s agricultural exports have declined by 50–60% due to the logistics crisis. Monthly shipments are currently estimated at around 2 mln tons, compared with a potential capacity of 5–6 mln tons, while maritime logistics costs have increased approximately fivefold.

To expand alternative transport routes, the government is working to increase the capacity of Ukraine’s western border crossings. Measures include expanding road border checkpoints and developing railway infrastructure with the European standard gauge of 1,435 mm extending from the border further into Ukraine. These projects are expected to provide additional capacity for export and import shipments and attract more logistics operators.

Meanwhile, further pressure on overland routes could intensify competition for transport capacity and increase costs for Ukrainian exporters. For agricultural companies, prolonged border waiting times mean longer delivery periods and additional logistics expenses. Under these conditions, developing border and railway infrastructure is becoming a key priority for maintaining the stability of Ukraine’s agricultural exports amid restricted seaport operations.

Tags: Ukraine, Poland, logistics