Ukraine’s alternative routes can handle 75% of cargo previously shipped via sea corridor

Ukraine’s alternative export routes, including Danube ports, railways and road transport, can handle around 4.5 mln tons of cargo per month, compared with 6 mln tons previously handled by the Ukrainian sea corridor. This was stated by First Deputy Minister for Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport Serhiy Derkach.

Of the 6 mln tons of cargo previously transported through the sea corridor, around 4 mln tons were grains, while another 2 mln tons consisted mainly of metals and iron ore. According to the Infrastructure Ministry, available alternative capacity should allow Ukraine to avoid a complete collapse in exports.

Danube ports are playing a key role and can handle up to 3 mln tons of cargo per month. Their throughput has already tripled over the past month despite intensified Russian attacks. Capacity could be further increased if Romanian pilots resume 24/7 operations on the Sulina Channel, which currently operates only during daytime. Ukraine is discussing the issue with Romania and the European Commission.

Rail routes can handle another 1–1.5 mln tons of cargo per month, while road transport can carry around 200–300 thsd tons. Ukraine is also expanding border infrastructure and expects to increase overall freight capacity at its land crossings by 15–20% over the next year.

However, alternative routes are considerably more expensive than maritime logistics. Higher transportation costs are less critical for oilseeds, while for grains they can make exports economically unattractive. Nevertheless, these routes allow exporters to continue shipments and generate working capital while deep-sea port operations remain constrained.

Ukraine’s logistics situation in 2026 is more challenging than in 2022 and subsequent years, as Russia has significantly intensified attacks across the country’s export infrastructure. Strikes are targeting not only ports but also warehouses, bridges, border crossings, locomotives and road transport.

Tags: Ukraine, export, Danube ports, rail transportation