Kyiv, Aug. 28 (SANA) Ukraine plans to reduce the area planted with winter wheat for the 2027 harvest as export difficulties and high logistics costs pressure farmers, Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotskyi said Friday.
Vysotskyi said grain exports reached 822,000 metric tons from August 1 to 26, about 21% of potential demand for the period.
Overall exports of grains, oilseeds and processed products totaled about 1.42 million tons in August, roughly one-third of potential volumes.
The government and the National Bank of Ukraine extended the deadline for repatriating foreign-currency export proceeds to 150 days from 120 days because of longer transport times.
Vysotskyi said the export constraints would affect autumn planting, particularly winter wheat, but would not threaten domestic food security as Ukraine produces more wheat than it consumes.
Ukraine’s farm sector has faced mounting pressure from disrupted Black Sea shipping, damage to storage and logistics infrastructure and high transport costs.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Thursday urged Kyiv’s partners to strengthen protection for grain exports and civilian shipping in the Black Sea after Russian attacks targeted ports, grain storage and other infrastructure.
European wheat futures rose about 4% Thursday to a one-month high amid concerns over renewed disruption to Black Sea grain trade.
F.J./M.F.
