Strike on Odesa ports sharply reduces wheat and corn exports
Ukraine’s grain exports in December fell sharply due to attacks by Russian occupiers on ports and logistics. Wheat shipments dropped by almost a quarter, corn by 13%, and overall exports fell by 16%. This has serious consequences for Ukraine’s budget and global food security, Bloomberg reports.
The attacks on Odesa ports, including Pivdennyi, significantly disrupted shipping. The shipping terminal of agribusiness company Allseeds was damaged, and around 30 containers of flour and vegetable oil caught fire. As a result, the effective capacity of the ports decreased, deliveries are delayed, and Ukrainian producers are suffering financial and reputational losses.
Export problems were exacerbated by delays in the corn harvest and increased competition in global markets. Analysts note that export volumes remained below 2024 levels throughout the season. However, the situation has partially stabilised following the installation of additional diesel generators at grain terminals in Odesa.
