Grain storage may become the next major challenge for Ukraine’s farmers

Ukrainian farmers should start securing additional grain storage capacity now, as a prolonged disruption of deep-sea grain exports could lead to a shortage of storage facilities later this year. Market participants warn that falling domestic prices, stalled seaborne shipments, and limited alternative export routes are forcing producers to rethink their post-harvest strategy.

According to Bohdan Lukiianchuk, founder of GROWEX Agro Digital Holding, farmers should avoid selling grain at depressed prices if storage is available. In many cases, current market prices no longer cover production costs, making grain storage a more viable option until market conditions improve.

Industry analysts note that export routes via the Danube and the western borders cannot fully replace Ukraine’s deep-sea ports. Limited capacity, rising logistics costs, and exceptionally low water levels on the Danube continue to constrain export volumes and increase transportation expenses.

Many producers are currently fulfilling only previously signed contracts while keeping the remaining harvest in storage, hoping that maritime exports will resume. If the disruption continues, the market could face a serious shortage of available storage capacity in September and October, when the corn harvest begins.

Market experts recommend making maximum use of on-farm and commercial storage facilities, grain bags, and other temporary storage solutions. Ukraine’s Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Taras Vysotskyi, has warned that export delays could create the need for additional storage for 10–12 mln tons of grain, with the government already preparing to seek international assistance to secure additional grain bags.

Tags: grain storage, silos