Russia and Ukraine wheat exports hit 16-year low

Wheat exports from Russia and Ukraine have dropped to their lowest levels in 16 years during the July-September period. Combined exports for the two nations reached approximately 8 million tons, significantly lower than the 16.2 million tons recorded during the same period last year and the five-year average of 18.2 million tons.

Disruptions in Black Sea shipping, port difficulties, and rising freight costs are driving importers to seek alternative sources. Russia is increasingly utilizing Baltic Sea ports to bypass Black Sea capacity constraints, though this has placed additional pressure on railway connections and storage facilities.

Ukraine is facing challenges due to attacks on ports and connection lines. To mitigate security risks and long truck queues at land borders, Kyiv is considering a plan to move customs inspections for agricultural products to Poland and Slovakia. This model, similar to a previous arrangement with Moldova, aims to speed up border crossings and reduce the time vehicles spend in vulnerable areas. In September, Ukraine exported 2.4 million tons of agricultural products, achieving only 46 percent of its potential export volume.