Exports Through Grain Corridor Experience Significant Decline

Exports of Ukrainian agricultural products through the seaports of the Odesa region witnessed a sharp decrease during the 42nd week of the grain corridor operation, from May 15 to May 21.

According to the Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB), exports fell by 78 percent compared to the previous week, reaching only 118,300 tons. During this period, only four vessels were loaded but not inspected, marking the lowest figure recorded this year.

The UCAB stated on May 23 that the number of loaded vessels decreased by nine units compared to the previous week. These loaded vessels are currently awaiting necessary inspections before proceeding to their customers.

The decline in exports was primarily driven by corn, accounting for 78 percent of the exported agricultural products during this reporting period, followed by sunflower cake (17 percent) and wheat (6 percent).

The destinations for Ukrainian agricultural products were mainly Asia (Saudi Arabia, Turkey) with 91,000 tons, Africa (Morocco) with 20,000 tons, and Europe (Italy) with 7,000 tons.

The report highlighted that since the resumption of the grain corridor, only 11 inbound vessels had passed inspection within six days. This number is notably low considering the substantial queue of inbound vessels awaiting inspection.

Overall, from August 1, 2022, to May 21, 2023, the grain corridor facilitated the export of 30.3 million tons of agricultural products, with an average weekly shipment volume of 721,400 tons.

Other Topics of Interest

‘Cannot Be Treated Seriously Yet’ – Expert on New US Provision of Antipersonnel Mines to Ukraine

Ukraine can always benefit from receiving more weapons, but measuring the expected impact of the new American mines provision is more complicated, the expert said.