Logistics of Ukrainian grain is under threat this year

The suspension of funding for infrastructure projects in Ukraine by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) creates significant challenges for Ukraine, in particular for the development of transport infrastructure and modernization of logistics networks. According to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, the cessation of USAID assistance has led to the loss of some projects important for Ukraine. In particular, this concerns customs reform, the purchase of appropriate equipment, and support for the energy sector.  

However, Ukraine has opportunities to find alternative sources of funding, and among its partners are the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which is actively investing in infrastructure, the European Investment Bank (EIB), which supports the modernization of transport hubs, and the World Bank, which finances the restoration of strategic facilities. In addition, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to support Ukraine's macrofinancial stability.

Additional opportunities are also opening up for Ukraine thanks to the EU's Ukraine Facility program, which provides funding for the country's reconstruction. Also, recently, the media reported that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will consider the possibility of financing those programs in the energy and infrastructure sectors in Ukraine that were previously overseen by the US Agency for International Development. All this will make it possible to continue the development of the transport network, maintain logistical stability and minimize the risks associated with the termination of funding from the United States.

It should be reminded that since 1992, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) has played an important role in supporting Ukraine. More than 30 years ago, a bilateral agreement was concluded between Ukraine and USAID on humanitarian and technical-economic cooperation, which aimed to help the country realize its economic, political and social potential.

Returning to the topic of grain, it should be noted that as of March 13, farmers in 15 regions have already sown 83,000 hectares with spring grain and leguminous crops. Farmers in Vinnytsia, Volyn, Ternopil and Rivne regions have started sowing most actively. According to the Ministry of Agrarian Policy, Ternopil, Volyn, Rivne, Vinnytsia and Mykolaiv regions became the leaders in terms of sowing volumes. The 2025 sowing campaign began in the face of difficult challenges, including climate change, economic instability and the consequences of the war. However, Ukrainian farmers demonstrate a high level of organization and readiness to fulfill tasks.

Currently, experts believe that a successful sowing campaign is crucial for ensuring Ukraine's food security and supporting the country's export potential. Ukraine remains one of the key players in the global agricultural market, and stability in this sector is an important factor for the country's economy.

By the way, according to operational data from the State Customs Service, as of March 10, Ukraine exported 30.169 million tons of grain and leguminous crops since the beginning of the 2024/25 marketing year, of which 1.051 million tons were shipped since the beginning of the current month.