Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine has had a profound negative impact on global food security. As a crucial player in the global food supply chain, Ukraine’s ability to restore its agricultural production and export capabilities is essential for stabilizing global food markets and preventing a large-scale food crisis, writes SEEDS.
This was written in a blog on the website of the public platform Svit.UA by Denys Vasylenko, co-founder of the logistics company NIDERA AGRO, an expert in agricultural export of grain crops and logistics, and industry leader of the NGO Svit.UA.
“The war has significantly disrupted Ukraine’s traditional export routes. The blockade of Black Sea ports, destruction of transportation infrastructure, and ongoing security threats have created substantial barriers to agricultural exports. These disruptions have contributed to rising global food prices, particularly affecting low-income countries that rely heavily on Ukrainian agricultural imports.
At the same time, new opportunities have emerged for Ukrainian farmers. The removal of customs duties in the EU has improved access to European markets, offering a pathway for Ukraine’s agricultural sector to adapt and rebuild despite ongoing challenges.
Key Export Directions and Emerging Opportunities
Agriculture plays a vital role in Ukraine’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and serving as a pillar of economic resilience. The full-scale invasion has underscored the critical importance of maintaining logistics, particularly the functionality of maritime routes and ports, to ensure stable product supplies to global markets. A primary focus of our efforts is the seamless integration of Ukrainian grain into the European market.
Ukraine’s export potential for 2025 will be shaped by multiple factors, with the most decisive being the end of the war and the restoration of peace. Under an optimistic scenario, Ukraine holds substantial potential for recovery and export expansion, driven by European integration, international support, and internal reforms. Conversely, in a less favorable scenario, export capabilities will remain severely constrained.
We successfully displaced Russian companies from the Italian market
Nevertheless, the EU remains Ukraine’s primary trading partner. In January 2025, Ukraine’s exports to the EU totaled $1.8 billion. Currently, 57% of our food exports pass through the EU, with 52% remaining within EU countries. We have successfully displaced Russian companies from the Italian market; however, competing with them on price remains a significant challenge. While the markets of Italy and Spain are now accessible to us, our priority is not only to expand sales but also to establish a strong reputation and build a foundation for long-term success.
As for global markets, we must also work persistently and seek out opportunities. After nearly losing China, Egypt, and Turkey, African countries have become increasingly important for our wheat exports. Currently, exports to these countries have risen from 3% to 13%, which is a positive trend.
We successfully displaced Russian companies from the Italian market Nevertheless, the EU remains Ukraine’s primary trading partner. In January 2025, Ukraine’s exports to the EU totaled $1.8 billion. Currently, 57% of our food exports pass through the EU, with 52% remaining within EU countries. We have successfully displaced Russian companies from the Italian market; however, competing with them on price remains a significant challenge. While the markets of Italy and Spain are now accessible to us, our priority is not only to expand sales but also to establish a strong reputation and build a foundation for long-term success. As for global markets, we must also work persistently and seek out opportunities. After nearly losing China, Egypt, and Turkey, African countries have become increasingly important for our wheat exports. Currently, exports to these countries have risen from 3% to 13%, which is a positive trend.
Port blockades, infrastructure destruction, disruption of transport routes, and security risks all present extraordinary challenges for agrarians. The war has dramatically changed the logistics routes for Ukrainian agricultural exports, leading to the search for alternative export paths (by rail, river, or through western borders). To stabilize exports, it is essential to have an effective logistics strategy that includes route optimization, coordination with European partners, and the introduction of new technological solutions for grain transportation. One of the key areas of work for the NGO Svit.UA is advocating on behalf of Ukrainian producers to European governments and the business community.
The organization actively works to ensure stable access for Ukrainian agricultural products to EU markets and supports the competitiveness of our farmers. In addition, Svit.UA helps producers adapt their logistics processes, seeks new export opportunities, and participates in creating effective solutions to improve agricultural logistics. Challenges and Opportunities for Ukrainian Agricultural Exports Ukrainian agricultural exports are facing unprecedented challenges while also encountering new opportunities.
Strengthening Ukraine’s presence in the European market, expanding into African markets, developing innovative logistical solutions, and implementing an effective product promotion strategy are key priorities that will shape the future of the sector. Ukraine has the potential not only to sustain but also to enhance its position as a leading player in the global food market. Achieving this will require addressing logistical challenges efficiently and fostering long-term strategic partnerships with importing countries, despite ongoing difficulties”.
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