Three vessels loaded with food, including the bulk carrier ASL ILEANA carrying 54.6 thousand tons of wheat, have left the ports of Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi for Asian countries. The wheat shipment is intended to help Bangladesh, which has been facing an economic crisis that has made it difficult for its population to afford food. However, thanks to the Grain Initiative launched by Ukraine, over 710 thousand tons of wheat have been shipped to Bangladesh since its launch, helping keep food prices stable.
Supporting Global Food Supply
The Grain Initiative has not only supported Bangladesh but also helped keep global food prices stable by increasing the supply of Ukrainian grain on the market. Since August 1, Ukrainian ports have exported 25.9 million tons of food to Asia, Europe, and Africa. These volumes could have been even higher if Russian authorities had not deliberately slowed down ship inspections in Turkey, causing delays for vessels carrying Ukrainian grain. Currently, there are 94 vessels waiting in line for inspection in Turkey, and only half of the approved number of inspections are being carried out. Despite these, Ukrainian ports remain committed to supporting global food supply.
Ukrainian Ports Face Challenges
The situation with ship inspections in Turkey has been consistently difficult. An average of only 6 inspections are carried out per day at the entrance to and exit from ports, half of the approved plan. This has caused delays for vessels waiting to be inspected. However, despite these challenges, Ukrainian ports continue to ship food to those in need.
Ukrainian ports have been playing a critical role in supporting global food supply, especially during times of crisis. The Grain Initiative has helped stabilize food prices and provide essential food to Bangladesh and other countries. Despite challenges with ship inspections in Turkey, Ukrainian ports continue export food.
