Water levels on the Danube in Romania have fallen to their lowest point since 1996, significantly disrupting river transport. Record-low water levels have forced the suspension of several ferry crossings, while grain barges have been delayed or required to reduce their cargo loads. The situation is creating additional challenges for grain exports through the Danube corridor.
According to Romania's National Water Administration, the Danube's inflow into the country dropped to just 1,700 cubic meters per second, compared with the long-term July average of 4,700 cubic meters per second. As a result, vessels cannot operate at full capacity, and grain transportation costs have already increased by approximately $3–5 per tonne.
The disruption is particularly significant for the grain market, as the Danube remains one of the main routes for transporting agricultural products to Black Sea ports. In addition to navigation problems, Romanian authorities have introduced restrictions on irrigation water use in several regions, creating further pressure on the country's agricultural sector.
Analysts note that future developments will largely depend on weather conditions. Romanian authorities expect rainfall to gradually restore water levels, but the current situation has already highlighted how climate-related extremes can disrupt grain logistics and affect the stability of agricultural supply chains across Europe.