Ukraine’s wheat exports remained relatively low in the first half of January amid Russian attacks on Ukrainian seaports and low external demand, data from the country’s grain traders union UGA showed on Wednesday.
Ukraine’s soil may no longer be able to sustain the country’s role as one of the major food producers without urgent action. And this could have consequences that stretch far beyond its borders.
Ukrainian wheat exports have been curbed as Russia’s recent heavy attacks on Black Sea ports and energy facilities have forced the shutdown of some grain export terminals, Ukrainian farmers’ union UAC said on Wednesday.
A sharp drop in the sunflower seed crop in 2025 combined with the introduction of export duties on oilseeds will lead to a surge in domestic processing of rapeseed and soybeans, the volume of which may exceed exports, said an analyst.
High grain moisture content and logistical woes caused by Russian attacks have slashed Ukraine’s corn exports from Black Sea ports in November and may do so again in December, farmers’ union UAC said on Tuesday.
Ukraine will not restrict wheat exports in the 2025/26 July-June season due to a higher harvest and lower export rates at the beginning of the current season, deputy economy minister told Reuters on Wednesday.
Ukrainian farmers plan to increase the 2026 winter grain sowing area to 5.43 million hectares (13.4 million acres) from 5.24 million in 2025, the Economy Ministry said on Tuesday, though dry soils in some areas mean planting has got off to a slow start.
The introduction of a 10 per cent duty on Ukrainian rapeseed and soybean exports has virtually halted Ukrainian exports due to a lack of clear government procedure on the documents needed for shipment, the country’s largest farmers union UAC said on Monday.
Ukraine’s 2025 wheat harvest is forecast at a maximum of 21.8 million metric tons, down from 22.7 million tons in 2024, the UAC farmers’ union said on Wednesday, slightly raising its outlook for this year’s corn crop.