Odesa Region's Agricultural Exports: Challenges and Opportunities
The Odesa region is establishing itself as a crucial export hub for Ukraine. In January 2026, the majority of exports for grains, oilseeds, and their processed products were conducted through the region's ports. These ports have become the primary source of supply to international markets.
According to analysts, maritime routes remain the leading channel for selling Ukrainian agricultural produce.
"Exports through the ports of Odesa continue to be the main route for grains, oilseeds, and their products. In January 2026, this route accounted for 3.7 million tons, which is 89% of the total volume of these categories," — reported the Ukrainian Club of Agrarian Business.
Rail transport ranked second in the volume of shipments, delivering about 0.32 million tons of agricultural products, which constitutes 8% of the total exports. Other transportation methods remain minimal in volume.
Analysts remind us that before the full-scale war, the share of exports through the Black Sea ports of Odesa reached 94%, but in the early years of the conflict, this figure significantly dropped due to port blockades. In 2024, maritime exports began to gradually recover due to the restoration of port infrastructure under military protection.
However, experts point out that the operation of the maritime corridor remains challenging, as constant shelling and energy risks continue to affect the stability of export operations.
