Ukraine’s corn exports amounted to $5.07 billion, representing 12.6% of global corn exports and 20.5% of the country’s total agricultural exports. This was reported by the Ukrainian Agribusiness Club association.
The top five global corn exporters in 2024 were:
- USA – $14.12 billion
- Brazil – $8.18 billion
- Argentina – $7.17 billion
- Ukraine – $5.07 billion
- EU – $1.16 billion
Key export destinations for Ukrainian corn:
- EU – 49%
- Turkey – 12%
- China – 11%
- Egypt – 11%
- Israel – 3%
Key insights:
- Restoration of maritime routes: In 2021, 100% of Ukraine’s corn exports went through Black Sea ports. The full-scale invasion changed this: in 2022–2023, the share of maritime ports fell to 56–64%, with alternative routes—Danube ports and the “Solidarity Lanes”—accounting for over 40% of exports. In 2024, thanks to the Ukrainian maritime corridor, sea logistics regained a dominant role, reaching an 84% share.
- Improved export revenue dynamics: After peak figures in 2021–2022 (nearly $5.9 billion), corn exports fell to $4.97 billion in 2023. In 2024, exports improved again, indicating a gradual recovery of stable Ukrainian corn exports via the Black Sea ports of Odessa region.
- Balanced export geography: While the EU remains the largest buyer, Ukraine maintains a global presence, exporting to 62 countries, with over half of the products going to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Conclusion: Corn remains one of the key export products of Ukraine’s agricultural sector, accounting for around 20% of total agricultural exports. Maintaining 4th place globally among exporters highlights the sector’s resilience and adaptability under challenging conditions. Future export growth depends directly on the stability of maritime logistics and continued access to key markets.
