Ukraine's Black Sea ports lose about a third of grain export capacity

Ukraine says it will do everything possible to protect its grain‑export ports and keep export volumes at least at last year’s level, after Russian missile and drone attacks have slashed capacity by roughly one‑third. Deputy finance minister Taras Vysotskyi told Reuters the state “recognises the priority of continuing agricultural exports” and will safeguard “the minimum guaranteed volume of exports.”

The Ukraine Agribusiness Union (UAC) reports that the three main Odesa ports now handle around four million tonnes of grain per month, down from about six million, and that export volumes have fallen 17 % in the latest week. Some terminal operators have halted purchases because of security fears. Grain and oilseed shipments remain Ukraine’s biggest source of foreign currency, accounting for over 90 % of its agricultural trade.

Ukraine supplies roughly 6 % of global wheat and 11 % of global corn. The disruption threatens global grain markets, with futures prices rising as Russia—also a top wheat exporter—faces its own supply challenges. Continued attacks could further strain world food security.