Wheat prices in Moldova rise due to logistics disruptions in the Azov and Black Seas

The deterioration of maritime logistics in the Azov and Black Seas due to reciprocal Ukrainian and Russian strikes on port infrastructure and shipping has supported wheat prices in Moldova. At the Port of Giurgiulești, the wheat procurement price has risen to 3.40 lei/kg, or about $194/t. Market participants are still uncertain whether this marks the beginning of a sustained upward trend or merely a short-term response to logistics risks.

According to Iurie Rija, Director of the Agrocereale Association, the ports of Rostov, Azov, and Taganrog rely mainly on river and coastal vessels because of their shallow approach channels. Following strikes on Russian maritime logistics and growing vessel congestion near Russian ports, grain exports from southern Russia have become more difficult, leading to a redistribution of trade flows across the Black Sea region.

As a result, part of import demand has shifted toward more accessible export origins, primarily Romania and Moldova. Experts believe this has become one of the key factors supporting procurement prices in the Moldovan wheat market.

Delays in harvesting the new crop in Moldova and other Black Sea countries have also provided additional price support. Combined, these factors have increased traders’ concerns about meeting delivery deadlines under existing export contracts, prompting them to raise procurement prices to secure sufficient grain supplies.

Meanwhile, forward contracts with Moldovan farmers continue to be signed at 2.8–3.15 lei/kg on an ex-farm basis. Grain market participants say they will continue adjusting procurement prices depending on developments in maritime logistics across the Azov–Black Sea region and changes in export market conditions.

Tags: prices, wheat, Moldova