Romania updates Sulina Canal access rules to boost grain transit

Romania is implementing new access rules for the Sulina Canal to streamline shipping traffic toward Ukrainian ports such as Izmail, Reni, and Ust-Dunaisk. Under the new procedure, vessels will undergo inspections and formalities directly in the maritime zone before entering the canal, rather than at Sulina.

This change aims to increase canal capacity, reduce waiting times, and minimize dangerous maneuvers within the waterway. Previously, excessive bureaucracy, a shortage of pilots, and a surge in traffic caused significant delays, with waiting times exceeding two weeks. These bottlenecks have impacted global food supply chains, extending grain delivery times from Egypt from 12 days to over 30 days.

Following the blockade of Black Sea ports, much of Ukraine's grain exports have been redirected through Danube ports. While experts estimate these ports can export at least 500,000 tons of grain per month, recent data shows a decline in export volumes compared to previous periods. Shipping costs have also risen significantly, from approximately $30 per ton in July to $105 per ton in mid-September.