Ukraine’s pea crop rises, but export options narrow global peas S&D is tightening

Article author:

Maksym Kharchenko

Grain & Freight Market Analyst

The global pea market is moving from record supply toward a more balanced S&D in 2026/27. Global production increased by almost 25% in 2025/26, mainly because of larger crops in russia and Canada. The International Grains Council expects production to decline by approximately 14% in 2026/27 to 15.7 M mt. Canada is forecast to record the largest reduction, down 25% because of a smaller planted area. russian production could decline by approximately 21% t as the crop becomes less profitable.

Ukraine peas exports were unusually high at 387 K mt in 2025/26, compared with a 5-year average of 308 K mt. The larger exports were supported by expanded area of 278 K ha and favorable yields. The exports increase especially in the 2H of the season, supported by stronger demand from Italy, Turkey and Malaysia.

Italy accounted for more than 30% of Ukrainian exports, making the market increasingly important but also creating concentration risk. Turkey remained a major regional buyer, while Pakistan, the UAE and Malaysia provided effective diversification.

Ukraine continued to expand pea area in 2026. The area increased by another 6% y/y to 295 K ha. As of August 10, farmers harvested 712 K mt from 93% of the area, production could be 740 K mt. Export potential estimated of 450–550 K mt, considerably above last season’s shipments. Ukraine must find buyers for up to 163 K mt more peas than exported last season while its main logistics channels remain constrained.

Peas are often exported in smaller lots than wheat or corn. This partly reduces logistics risk because some cargo can be redirected to trucks, containers and rail routes when deep-sea ports are unavailable.

Italy, Turkey and neighboring European markets can be served more flexibly than distant bulk destinations. Container shipments may also help reach buyers requiring smaller volumes and specific quality. However, relying heavily on several buyers makes Ukraine vulnerable to changes in freight, quality requirements and local demand.

This article is also available to subscribers of ‘BLACK SEA & DANUBE GRAIN’ Weekly Report by UkrAgroConsult.

Request a free a sample report and apply for subscription here.

Be confident with your business and trade strategy based on professional analysis and forecasts of the Black Sea agri market.

Tags: export, logistics, global market, pea, agricultural market, Ukraine, harvest