The opening of the Ukrainian maritime corridor in 2023, according to the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), has significantly impacted the geographical structure of goods exports. This development has allowed for the restoration of supplies to traditional markets in Asia and Africa, where delivery by other means was complicated or even impossible.
This is reported by Finway
Moreover, Ukrainian exporters have been able to explore new, particularly exotic markets. Notable among these are countries such as Dominica, Laos, Malawi, Eswatini, and East Timor.
Growth in Import and Export Volumes
In 2024, the physical volume of imported goods increased by 7.8%, with maritime transport rising by 60%. The main groups of goods imported by sea included chemical products (40% in 2024, including fertilizers – 20%) and petroleum products (32%).
Challenges for Exporters
Manufacturers in the mining and metallurgy complex (MMC) in 2024 gained unhindered access to maritime routes, positively affecting the growth of external supplies. However, the export of these products remains under pressure from challenges related to the war. The volume of grain transportation via the maritime corridor last year was close to the levels of 2021.
“The opening of the maritime corridor has provided Ukrainian exporters with new opportunities for development and access to international markets.”