The first year of operation of the Ukrainian maritime corridor: results and achievements

On August 16, during a government meeting, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal summed up the results of the annual work of the Ukrainian maritime corridor, which was opened a year ago, despite Russia's attempts to block Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea. This initiative became an important step in the struggle to preserve the economic stability of Ukraine and ensure food security at the international level.

According to Shmyhal, the Russian blockade was aimed at increasing economic pressure on Ukraine and creating threats to the world food supply. However, the opening of the sea corridor became an effective response to these challenges, allowing Ukraine to maintain and even improve its export capabilities.

During the year, more than 2,300 ships passed through Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea, and the total volume of cargo transportation amounted to more than 64 million tons. Of this volume, about 44 million tons are grain crops, which emphasizes the importance of Ukrainian exports for ensuring food stability in the world.

According to the data of the Ministry of Reconstruction, the largest volumes of cargo were transported in December 2023 and February 2024. In these months, the indicators reached peak values: in December, 4,921,000 tons of grain and 1,893,000 tons of other goods were exported, and in February, 5,206,000 tons of grain and 2,657,000 tons of other goods were exported.

Shmyhal noted that the successful operation of the maritime corridor contributed to the growth of the physical volume of exports of Ukrainian goods by 35% in the first half of 2024, which allowed the country to return to pre-war indicators. This had a positive effect on various sectors of the economy and contributed to overall economic growth.

The Prime Minister emphasized that such achievements were achieved thanks to three key factors: the effective actions of the Security and Defense Forces of Ukraine in the Black Sea, the implementation of a unique initiative on war risk insurance for merchant ships, and the restoration of port infrastructure.

In conclusion, Shmyhal reminded that the issue of food security is one of the ten points of President Volodymyr Zelenskyi's peace formula, which was supported by the participants of the International Peace Summit in June this year. This aspect remains key to maintaining stability and peace throughout the world.