Ukraine exports via maritime corridor reach highest level since start of war
Ukraine exports via sea corridor reach highest level since start of war (Getty Images)
The cargo turnover of the ports of Great Odesa in February reached 8 million tons, with 5.2 million tons being agricultural products. These are record-breaking export figures not only through the Ukrainian maritime corridor but also since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine.
According to the report, Ukraine is approaching pre-war export levels through these ports. Today, over 90% of all agricultural exports go through the Great Odesa ports and the Danube ports.
Moreover, Ukraine remains a key guarantor of food security, particularly concerning the export of grains to countries in Africa and Asia. Since the establishment of the Ukrainian corridor, nearly 28 million tons of cargo have been received by 42 countries, with 19 million tons being grains and oilseeds.
Currently, 113 vessels are expected to approach the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdennyi, with almost 3 million tons of cargo for export.
Ukrainian maritime corridor
After Russia withdrew from the grain deal in July of last year, a special maritime corridor was established, specifically to protect grain shipments from ports. According to the Navy, the corridor's operation reached its full capacity prior to Russia's full-scale invasion.
As reported by the Chief of the General Staff of the Ministry of Defense Kyrylo Budanov, constant attacks on the Russian fleet allowed its displacement to the southeast and the restoration of navigation. The northern part is controlled by Ukraine.
According to the National Bank of Ukraine, the average monthly volume of goods shipments through the new maritime corridor will be about 7 million tons. The capacity will be sufficient not only for the export of the 2023-2024 harvests but also for expanding the export of the mining and metallurgical complex products.
