Ukraine may face a reduction of crop areas by 35-40% by spring 2027 if agricultural exports cannot be restored. This was stated by the Minister of Agricultural Policy Taras Vysotsky in an article by Politico.
Export Challenges
Currently, Ukraine can export less than half of the necessary agricultural product volume through railway, road, and river routes to Europe. If the blockade of the Black Sea ports continues, up to 35 million tons of agricultural products may remain within the country.
Poland and Romania's Refusal
The export issues are exacerbated by the refusal of neighboring EU countries, particularly Poland and Romania, to increase the transit of Ukrainian grain through their territories. Both countries have stated that their priorities lie in supporting their own farmers.
- Kiev has requested the EU to increase the capabilities for exporting agricultural products.
- There is a need to allocate €1.1 billion for compensation of increased transportation costs.
If the situation does not change, a significant amount of grain may remain in Ukraine this year, negatively impacting the agricultural sector.