Ukraine and the Baltic states step up checks on grain origin

Ukraine and the Baltic states are strengthening controls on the origin of grain entering international markets. Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotskyi discussed the issue with representatives of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Lithuania is already piloting a Grain Verification Scheme through the Port of Klaipeda. Latvia has also started practical checks: four grain samples have been collected since September 16 and sent to a laboratory in France for testing, with two more samples planned.

The aim is to create a systematic mechanism for verifying the origin of grain cargoes and prevent products from temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories from entering international markets under a different declared origin.

Ukraine is seeking to expand this verification practice and improve coordination with the Baltic states. The sides also discussed using Baltic ports as alternative routes for Ukrainian agricultural exports.

According to Ukrainian estimates, Baltic ports could potentially handle up to 20 mln tons of Ukrainian grain, although these routes involve significantly higher logistics costs. Ukraine has previously sought international financial support to help offset the additional expense.

Tags: Ukraine, grain, grain export, Baltic