Sulina and Tulcea shipping traffic increases by up to 50%

Commercial shipping traffic at the Sulina and Tulcea border crossing points in Romania has increased significantly since July. According to the Romanian Coast Guard, traffic at the Sulina crossing point rose by approximately 25% compared to the same period last year, while the Tulcea crossing saw an increase of about 50%.

This surge follows the redirection of vessels away from the Bystroye Canal and Ukrainian Black Sea ports due to Russian attacks. As a result, more cargo, including essential grain exports, is being routed through Danube river ports. These shipments must compete for access with higher-priority cargo, such as fuel, which can slow down export processes.

The Romanian Coast Guard has dismissed claims that congestion near the Sulina Canal is caused by border control delays. The institution stated that there have been no instances of insufficient personnel to conduct inspections. Controls are performed by mixed teams including border police, naval authorities, and customs representatives.