Ukraine exports only a third of its agricultural potential due to port blockade — Vysotskyi

Ukraine exported only 794 thsd tons of agricultural products in the first half of August, representing about 30% of its export potential.

This was stated by Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Taras Vysotskyi.

The main reason is the blockade of seaports and an increase in alternative logistics costs of at least $50/t.

Ukraine is forecast to produce around 80 mln tons of grains and oilseeds in 2026, with about 60 mln tons of grains, oilseeds and processed products potentially available for export.

However, at the current pace, Ukraine is expected to export only around 1.7 mln tons in August. Without the full operation of the Greater Odesa ports, maximum exports are estimated at just 2–2.5 mln tons per month.

Currently, 40–45% of exports move through the Danube ports and another 40–45% via rail and land border crossings, while around 7% is transported by road.

Due to the slow pace of exports, Ukraine could face a shortage of 8–11 mln tons of storage capacity by November.

To address the problem, the Ministry of Agrarian Policy is working to provide temporary storage capacity, including grain bags.

To prepare for winter crop planting on around 7 mln ha, the government has restored access to working capital under the “Affordable Loans 5-7-9%” program, with financing of up to UAH 90 mln and interest-rate compensation for borrowers of up to 10% annually. The measure has been extended until March 31, 2027.

In addition, the coefficient used for financing secured by agricultural products has been increased from 0.4 to 0.75, significantly expanding farmers’ ability to raise working capital using grain and other agricultural products as collateral.

Tags: Ukraine, export, Ukrainian ports, restrictions