Low Danube water levels effectively block grain exports from part of Bulgaria

Critically low water levels on the Danube have virtually blocked grain shipments from Bulgaria’s Vidin region. Due to restrictions on river transportation, more than 90% of the grain produced in the region remains in storage facilities, which are already nearly full.

The situation is creating additional risks ahead of the sunflower and corn harvests. With limited storage capacity available, farmers could face difficulties accommodating the new crop unless river logistics recover soon.

Unable to ship grain via the Danube, producers are being forced to switch to road transportation. Delivering grain from the region to Black Sea ports costs around €40–50/t, significantly worsening export economics.

Another option is to sell grain directly from the field, but farmers then have to accept lower prices. As a result, low Danube water levels are simultaneously increasing logistics costs and putting additional pressure on domestic grain prices in the region.

Bulgarian grain producers are calling on the government to cover part of the cost of transporting grain to seaports. They are also seeking a one-off payment of agricultural subsidies to support farm liquidity amid difficulties marketing old-crop grain and the approaching new harvest.

Tags: Bulgaria, export, grain, water levels, Danube