The FAO cereal price index experienced a 6.3% increase in May, reaching 118.7 points, but remained 8.2% lower than May 2023. This surge was primarily due to concerns about the 2024 harvest, with growing conditions negatively affecting production in Europe, North America, and the Black Sea region. Additionally, damage to Black Sea shipping infrastructure and issues in Argentina and Brazil's cereal production have contributed to the price hike. As a result, all main export cereals' prices have increased, with wheat seeing the most significant rise. This trend is observed in maize, barley, sorghum, and rice prices, largely driven by production concerns and strong global demand.