Ukraine Farm Union Warns Oilseed Export Priority Would Devastate Grain Farmers

Ukraine's largest farming union, UAC, is warning that plans to prioritize oilseed exports could severely impact grain farmers. According to the union, this policy change would leave farmers with excessive grain stocks and lower incomes.

The Agriculture Ministry proposed giving transport preference to higher-value goods like oilseeds when export routes are constrained due to the war with Russia. However, the UAC argues that oilseeds already have an export advantage due to their higher value and do not need additional preferences.

Grain exports have fallen by over 60% in September, while oilseed shipments have declined by about one-third. The UAC claims that farmers would bear the brunt of this policy change, with reduced storage facilities, marketing opportunities, and lower purchase prices.