Looking for a shipping solution from Turkey to Ukraine and Russia.

Vegetables

Ukraine

Ferhat Erdem

Published Mar 22, 2022

With the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, there was a severe decrease in exports from the Mediterranean region to these countries. Both countries are important markets for Turkish products. Since the beginning of the war, there has been a decrease of around 50% in exporting fresh vegetables and fruits to Russia. Since Ukraine is closed, the shipment of goods to Russia by land has decreased. Between 25 February and 18 March, USD 6 million 293 thousand 794 were exported to Russia.

Russia has lifted the quota limit on almost all products. The restriction has been raised in products such as tomatoes, peppers, and lemons, and it is expected to be lifted shortly for products such as pomegranates, grapes, and tangerines. In the Ukrainian market, exports had stopped since the beginning of the war. However, in the last week, exports have been active again. Turkey ships very small quantities of tomatoes, peppers, and lemons to Ukraine. An export of approximately USD 815 thousand was realized in the last week.

As a result of good relations with Armenia, Turkey uses the Armenia and Georgia road, but the road itself is problematic; it is very narrow. Turkey can't reach the capacity it wants. Turkey will use the Belarusian road for a while, but this road also extends to the distance of at least a thousand kilometers. Turkey is trying to strengthen maritime transportation. Turkey is negotiating with ship companies to increase the number of ships. Russia also establishes customs points in two ports. If the number of ships increases, Turkey will be a little comfortable sending the trucks to the other side. Turkey hopes the war to end as soon as possible.