Black Sea Conflict Disrupts Grain Shipments From Russia and Ukraine

Russia and Ukraine's ongoing conflict has taken a significant toll on grain shipments from the Black Sea region, with both countries facing challenges in exporting their crops.

The International Grains Council forecasts that Russia's total grains crop for the 2026-27 season will be down to 127.1 million tonnes from 129.9 million the previous year, while Ukraine's total is expected to rise to 64.4 million tonnes from 62.9 million.

Russia is set to remain the world's largest exporter of grains, with wheat accounting for 89 million tonnes of its forecast exports and Ukraine expecting to increase shipments despite complicated logistics and rising transportation costs.

Average monthly exports of wheat, barley, and maize from Ukraine have declined by 22% compared to the same period last year due to Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, including transport infrastructure and energy grids.