Demand for Ukrainian Wheat Remains Strong Despite Export Disruptions

According to UkrAgroConsult, part of the export volumes is already being rerouted through the Danube ports, with onward shipments handled via the Romanian port of Constanța.

However, analysts note that the capacity of the Danube route remains limited. Due to a drop in the river’s water level of approximately 1.5 metres, navigation is currently possible mainly for vessels with a shallow draft, restricting grain transshipment volumes.

«Despite these challenges, the market continues to conclude new export contracts. According to traders, on 26 July a deal was confirmed for the supply of Ukrainian wheat with 11.5% protein from Izmail at $262 per tonne CIF Alexandria,» the analysts said.

Market participants note that the Danube remains an important alternative export corridor. However, due to limited throughput capacity, low water levels, and higher logistics costs, it cannot fully replace the deep-water ports of Greater Odesa.

«The restoration of operations at the Black Sea ports remains the key prerequisite for the recovery of full-scale Ukrainian grain exports,» the experts concluded.