It is proposed that a special regime be introduced in EU ports for ships carrying Ukrainian grain

A temporary special Port State Control (PSC) regime has been proposed for vessels carrying Ukrainian agricultural products from the Greater Odesa ports to the EU. The initiative is aimed at increasing the number of vessels available for Ukraine’s seaborne exports amid growing security and logistics risks.

The proposal was put forward by Marelis Navigation S.A. founder Konstantin Sobol. According to him, an increasing number of shipowners and crews are refusing to call at Ukrainian ports because of security risks. At the same time, some vessels that are still willing to operate on this route face the risk of enhanced inspections at EU ports.

This mainly concerns older vessels whose flag or classification society may result in a higher risk profile. After sailing from Ukraine, such vessels may face more extensive PSC inspections, creating the risk of detention, additional costs and delays. As a result, shipowners may reject Ukrainian voyages even when they are prepared to accept the war-related risks.

Under the proposed mechanism, vessels would undergo enhanced independent technical inspections before sailing, covering the hull, engine, steering gear, fire-fighting and life-saving systems, navigation equipment and documentation. After successfully passing the inspection, they could qualify for a special temporary PSC procedure at the first EU port of discharge, without lowering existing safety standards.

The mechanism could operate for 6–12 months and apply to vessels carrying Ukrainian agricultural products directly to EU countries. It is expected to expand the tonnage available for Ukraine, reduce regulatory risks for shipowners and support the stability of the country’s seaborne agricultural exports.

Tags: Ukraine, grain, EU, agricultural products, Odesa port