The sentiment is worsening on the small-tonnage shipping market. Despite the end of Easter holidays, the market has not shown any hint of the recovery this week. Moreover, activity has expectedly decreased in the Black and Mediterranean Seas by the end of the week amid the Eid al-Fitr holidays in Muslim countries.
Almost 1.54 million tonnes of grain meant for exports from Ukraine were carried by railways during the period started April 1 and ended April 19, 2023.
No clear trend could be seen on the EU grain export market. Prices for German wheat have grown slightly, while those for French wheat are a bit down.
The Ukrainian grain export market has been showing mixed price trends. During the week, the Russian side has once again blocked vessel inspections within the “grain corridor” in the territorial waters of Turkey, which brings uncertainty to the trade process.
Grain exports from Great Odesa ports, thousand tonnes*
In the US, soybean quotes are affected by slowing sales and exports from the country, as well as by large offer of Brazilian oilseeds. Meanwhile, Refinitiv Commodities Research has raised the US soybean production forecast to 122 million t (up 1 million t to the previous estimate).
In Australia, feed barley prices have increased amid slower sales. At the same time, wheat export quotes have fallen noticeably due to increased offer.
As of April 20, Slovakia does not accept Ukrainian imported grain products by wide gauge, but the cargo is still being transported in transit.