Ukraine will need a month to restore export volumes after ports reopen

Ukraine will need at least one month to restore agricultural exports to previous levels after vessel traffic resumes at the Greater Odesa ports. Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotsky said in an interview with Reuters that even after maritime logistics are restored, rebuilding export operations will take time.

According to Vysotsky, Russian attacks on civilian vessels and port infrastructure effectively halted traffic to the Greater Odesa ports during the peak harvest period. As a result, domestic grain and oilseed prices have already fallen by about 30%, while direct losses for Ukraine’s agricultural sector in 2026 could reach $1.5-3 bln.

Ukraine is currently expanding exports via rail, road transport, and the Danube ports. However, even after these alternative routes reach stable operation by the end of August, they will provide only 50-55% of the export capacity previously handled by the Greater Odesa ports, which shipped around 6 million metric tons of agricultural products per month.

The situation is further complicated by drought and historically low water levels on the Danube River, limiting the potential for additional shipments through the Danube corridor until at least October. The government has already adjusted its mechanism for minimum export prices and is preparing financial and logistical support measures to help farmers avoid selling their crops at depressed prices.

Vysotsky stressed that Ukraine remains one of the world’s leading exporters of grain, oilseeds, and vegetable oils, meaning a prolonged disruption of Black Sea exports could reduce global supplies and support higher food prices. He also called on international partners to help ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, emphasizing that the rapid reopening of the Greater Odesa ports is critical for both Ukrainian agriculture and global food security.

Tags: Ukrainian ports, Ukraine, export, agricultural products