Baltic Redirection: Russia's Grain Export Shift Slams East Africa's Wheat Imports
Russia's shift in grain export logistics due to geopolitical disruptions has caused delays for East African importers of wheat. The exporters are rerouting cargo through the Baltic Sea, creating new hurdles for shipments bound for markets such as Kenya.
According to industry data, about 90% of Russia's seaborne grain exports passed through the Black Sea and Sea of Azov during the July 2025-June 2026 export season. However, attacks and interruptions affecting these routes have forced exporters to adapt.
The phytosanitary certificates required for Russian wheat are now taking longer to secure due to the changed logistics. This has significant implications for East African countries reliant on imported grain, particularly Kenya, which relies heavily on imports.