Romania Gives Priority to Domestic Cargo Over Ukrainian Grain

Ukrainian grain exports through Romania's port of Constanta are facing significant delays due to congestion and logistical constraints. According to Unicom Tranzit, a Romanian rail operator, Ukrainian cargo is currently receiving lower priority in rail shipments compared to domestic cargo.

This situation is further complicated by the heavy congestion at the port of Constanta, which handles not only grain but also other cargoes. Even after receiving port acceptance, trains may have to wait 2-5 days and, in some cases, up to a week before being unloaded.

Another constraint is the shortage of European-gauge wagons, with most of this rolling stock already being used for domestic shipments in Romania. As a result, Ukrainian cargo is currently transported mainly in wagons requiring bogie exchange, which significantly limits the potential to increase Ukrainian grain exports by rail through Romania.