Turkish businesses are calling for the Black Sea grain corridor to be reopened

Representatives of the Turkish business community have proposed establishing a new safe corridor for commercial shipping in the Black Sea, modeled on the grain initiative that operated in 2022–2023. They argue that amid growing risks to shipping, such a mechanism is becoming increasingly important for regional trade and global food security, according to Turkish business newspaper Dünya.

İsmail Uzel, head of the Turkish-Ukrainian Business Council, warned that prolonged disruptions to Black Sea shipping could cause serious problems for grain supplies to the global market. He stressed that maritime routes are crucial for exports of grains and oilseeds from Ukraine and Russia, including wheat, corn, barley, sunflower seed and soybeans.

Disruptions to Black Sea logistics also pose risks for Turkey, one of the world’s leading exporters of flour and pasta, which relies heavily on imported grain for processing. Heightened security risks are increasing vessel downtime and costs for shipowners, while companies are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit crews for Black Sea voyages even when offering higher wages.

Turkish businesses warn that if security problems persist, some grain flows could be redirected to more distant markets. Longer routes would increase fuel, insurance and freight costs, potentially adding further pressure to global food prices. Against this backdrop, the Turkish Shipowners and Coastal Shipping Operators Association has called on Turkey and international organizations to begin negotiations on a new maritime grain corridor.

Turkish authorities have also stepped up discussions on shipping security. The country’s Transport Ministry has warned shipping companies about increased risks in the Black Sea, although no formal navigation restrictions have been introduced. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan earlier said that Ankara had presented the parties with a proposal for a moratorium on military actions that also covers the situation in the Black Sea.

Tags: Ukraine, Turkey, grain, Black Sea grain corridor