Harvesting under fire: how Ukrainian farmers overcome the challenges of 2025
24 June 18:25
Despite the challenging security situation and drought in southern Ukraine, farmers continue to harvest and export grain. As of June 20, Ukraine exported over 40 million tons of grains and pulses. At the same time, the threat of shelling and dumping by competitors pose risks in foreign markets.
Denys Marchuk, Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian Agrarian Council, spoke about the main challenges and prospects of the current season in an exclusive interview with "Komersant Ukrainian".
Will farmers be able to complete the harvest on schedule, given the security and weather situation?
– At the moment, there are no serious logistical problems. Approximately 90% of large grain consignments pass through the ports of Greater Odesa. At the same time, the volume of transportation by road across the western borders is decreasing due to the current duties and quotas.
– The main flow of grain crops goes through the Black Sea. Over 40 million tons of grains and pulses have already been shipped in the current marketing year. Of course, the shelling of Odesa region poses a threat to port operations, but we continue to work.
What other crops, besides wheat, can become export leaders this year?
– It all depends on the gross harvest. Last year, we produced about 22 million tons of wheat, while this season we expect about 18 million tons. Wheat and corn will remain the main export crops.
The traditional leaders also include rapeseed, soybeans and barley, which are listed on global exchanges and are in demand.
What is the situation with grain exports? Is the sea corridor operating stably and what are the risks?
– The main risks are associated with Russian military strikes on port infrastructure. Because of this, some countries, especially in Asia, are afraid to sign contracts, doubting the timeliness of deliveries.
However, the sea corridor is currently working, and shipments continue. At the same time, it all depends on the supply volumes – the old stocks are almost exhausted, and the new harvest is just beginning.
What about other key regions, such as the Middle East and Africa? Is there a decrease or increase in demand for Ukrainian grain from them?
– In Africa and North Africa, the situation is more complicated as Russia is actively dumping its products, significantly reducing prices. It is difficult for us to compete.
Should we expect prices for wheat and flour products to rise due to the escalation of the situation in the East of Ukraine?
– Prices will depend on the volume of the harvest and the pace of harvesting. Currently, the southern regions are suffering from drought and fighting, including Kherson, parts of Mykolaiv and Dnipro regions. There will be losses, and this will affect the overall harvest.
In addition, the price will depend on the situation on global markets and the harvest in other countries.
Do farmers receive sufficient support for harvesting and storing crops in the frontline regions?
– Farmers in the frontline regions face more difficulties due to damaged infrastructure. The government program to provide polymeric grain sleeves has proven to be effective. It has helped many producers. If difficulties persist, the program should be extended.
I also believe that we need to introduce compensation for losses per hectare and provide for state insurance against risks, including drought, in the 2026 budget, which is especially important for the south of Ukraine. This is what will help domestic farmers continue to feed the country in these difficult times.
