Key Achievements:
- Record Export Volume: Since the departure of the first vessel, Joseph Schulte, on August 16, 2023, Ukrainian Black Sea ports have processed a record volume of cargo, totaling 1,737 vessels.
- Stable Export Establishment: The Ministry of Reconstruction highlighted the combined efforts of the government, the Administration of Sea Ports of Ukraine, international partners, and port industry workers in establishing a stable export system for Ukrainian agricultural products by sea.
April Export Highlights:
- Largest Export Volume Since Invasion: In April, Ukraine exported 6.6 million tons of grain and oil crops, the largest monthly export since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
- Black Sea Ports Contribution: Approximately 5.2 million tons of the total grain and oilseed exports were shipped from Ukraine's Black Sea ports, surpassing the peak of the Black Sea Grain Initiative of 4.2 million tons in October 2022.
Expert Analysis:
- Unilateral Export Capability: This record demonstrates Ukraine's ability to export unilaterally through its shipping corridor in the Black Sea.
- Global Food Security: The British Ministry of Defense emphasized the importance of Ukrainian supplies for global food security. Between July 2023 and June 2024, Ukraine's grain exports will account for about 9.7% of global grain exports.
- Diverse Export Routes: Although the majority of agricultural exports rely on Black Sea ports (about 78%), Ukraine also utilizes other routes:
- Danube River: Approximately 15% of export volumes.
- Rail: About 6% of export volumes.
- Road: Less than 1% of export volumes.
Future Prospects:
- Increased Grain Exports: The US Agency for International Development (USAID) predicts a 15% increase in grain exports from Ukraine.
This achievement underscores Ukraine's resilience and strategic importance in global agricultural exports, contributing significantly to global food security amidst ongoing challenges.
