Russia's Black Sea Blockade Crushes Ukraine Grain Exports

Ukraine's agricultural sector is facing significant challenges due to Russia's blockade of Black Sea ports, which handle 90% of Ukraine's grain exports. The blockade has resulted in a drastic reduction in grain exports, with only 590,000 tonnes exported in the first 12 days of August, about 30% of the needed volume.

According to Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotskyi, foreign partners have confirmed funding for temporary grain storage facilities, which will cover immediate needs for wheat. However, part of the crops, such as corn, will remain in the fields and risk spoiling.

The situation facing Ukrainian farmers is 'critical', with about 65 million tonnes to be exported in a year, meaning 6 million tonnes every month. Even if exports are scaled up through alternative routes, they will only cover 45-50% of the need.