Janusz Wojciechowski, European Commissioner for Agriculture, is optimistic about the transit of Ukrainian grain through Eastern European Countries. He hoped the countries would soon agree on a deal that would allow grain to be re-exported through the country.

Hungary, Slovakia, Romania and Bulgaria have banned Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products from their territories since last week. Despite being compensated by the millions from the EU, Eastern European farmers stated that they could not compete with the lower prices of Ukrainian grain. They followed Poland’s example in banning, although Warsaw has now decided to allow the transit of Ukrainian grain again.

Last week, the EC had proposed providing an additional 100 million, on top of the 56 million it had promised, to compensate farmers. But Hungary, Bulgaria and Slovakia expect even more additional action. These countries served as Ukraine’s grain transit routes, but much grain was stuck in the country due to export problems, which prevented farmers from storing their own grain. Therefore, Eastern European countries want additional assistance from the EU with this transit issue.

Earlier today, the countries expressed their desire to extend the ban on transit and exports of Ukrainian grain until the end of 2023. According to Wojciechowski, however, the new transit deal could ensure that 80 to 90 percent of Ukraine’s agricultural exports are transitable. It only includes five products, including whole grains, oats, and sunflower seeds. Countries will be allowed to continue to ban other agricultural products, including honey.

Eva Selderbeek