Ukraine and Poland discussed alternative routes for agricultural exports

Ukraine and Poland have discussed expanding alternative routes for Ukrainian agricultural exports amid systematic Russian attacks on Greater Odesa ports and logistics infrastructure. Options include increasing transit through rail and road border crossings and using ports in EU countries, according to Ukraine’s Agriculture Ministry.

Polish ports including Gdansk, Gdynia, Szczecin and Swinoujscie are being considered as potential gateways for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Ukraine stressed the need to assess the cost and economic feasibility of these routes. The two sides also discussed opportunities to increase transit capacity involving railway operators, customs, border, veterinary and phytosanitary services.

Maintaining Ukraine’s ability to export agricultural products to third countries remains a priority. With seaborne shipments restricted, Ukraine is also considering greater use of the EU Solidarity Lanes and port infrastructure in other European countries. At the same time, efforts continue to restore full operation of the maritime corridor.

Export disruptions are creating a risk of insufficient storage capacity for the new crop. According to the Agriculture Ministry, Ukraine could face a storage capacity shortfall of 7.5–8 mln tons by November, while under a more negative scenario the deficit could reach 11 mln tons.

Another major challenge is providing farmers with sufficient working capital for autumn fieldwork and the next spring planting campaign. The government is expanding credit programs for agricultural producers and discussing possible interest-rate compensation with international partners. Without sufficient opportunities to sell crops through export channels, some farms could face funding shortages for the next production cycle.

Tags: EU, Poland, Ukraine, export