Logistical ways to export grain under martial law

Abstract

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation has caused problems for the agricultural sector: many lands have ended up in the temporarily occupied territories, and some remain mined or have become unusable. The constant shelling has caused problems not only with growing produce but also with its export. The leading logistics sea channel was not working at total capacity. It became necessary to look for alternative options for the delivery of goods. The article aims to analyze the possibilities of using alternative logistics routes for exporting Ukrainian grain under martial law. The study used the following methods: analysis, synthesis, generalization, specification, statistical and graphical. The dynamics of grain exports in physical and value terms were analyzed throughout the study. The problems of supplying agricultural products in times of war are presented. Alternative logistics routes for grain exports are identified. The importance of the Black Sea Grain Agreement is analyzed. Trends in the use of river transport are considered. The possibility of using the railway route is assessed. The problems of cargo delivery by road are considered. The study shows that the most efficient way to export grain is by sea. Therefore, it is essential to ensure its functioning by maximizing its capabilities and assistance of foreign partners, including cargo insurance, without considering blackmail by the Russian Federation. To solve the problems encountered in grain exports, expanding river logistics capabilities by creating additional transport routes through the EU is necessary. Further active use of road transport is possible only if an agreement is reached to resume Ukrainian grain exports to certain EU countries and problems at checkpoints are resolved. In rail logistics, tariffs for services need to be revised. Keywords: logistics, exports, grain, logistics routes, Black Sea Grain Agreement, sea transport, river transport, land routes