Ukrzaliznytsia ready to increase Ukrainian grain transit via Moldova

The export potential for Ukrainian grain shipments by rail through Moldova could reach 4.5 mln tons per year. Ukrzaliznytsia considers this estimate realistic and sees opportunities to further increase cargo flows along this route.

Currently, the capacity of the rail route through Moldova for Ukrainian agricultural exports is estimated at 500–800 thsd tons. With infrastructure improvements, potential shipment volumes could therefore increase several times.

Scaling up the route will require higher handling capacity at border stations, removal of technological bottlenecks at border crossings, streamlined control procedures and improved train traffic management. These measures should ensure stable shipments if demand for the corridor increases.

Another factor supporting the route is an agreement between Ukraine and Moldova providing a 50% discount on rail transit tariffs for Ukrainian cargo. The discount has been in effect since August 10 and will remain valid until the end of 2026. At the same time, Ukrzaliznytsia says it cannot offer additional reductions in domestic tariffs.

Development of the Moldovan route is part of Ukraine’s efforts to expand alternative export logistics. Ukrzaliznytsia is working with carriers from Moldova, Poland, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia to increase the capacity of western border crossings and routes to Danube ports.

Tags: Ukraine, export, grain, Moldova, rail transportation