Ukraine Grain Exports Face Delays as 70 Vessels Wait Near Danube

A major issue has emerged in Ukraine's grain exports due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As of now, approximately 70 vessels are waiting near the Danube's Sulina Canal for access to Ukrainian ports to load grain for export.

The delays are caused by a lack of pilots, air-raid alerts, and limited capacity at these ports. Each day that ships wait means operators lose around $8,000 in revenue, which could worsen the grain shortage and drive up global prices.

Russia's attacks have effectively blocked Ukraine's Black Sea ports, which used to handle about 90% of its grain exports. As a result, some shipments are being diverted through Danube ports, but these facilities have much lower capacity than their Black Sea counterparts.