As the new marketing season approaches, ocean freight rates for transporting Ukrainian corn to Italy have begun to increase. According to market analysts, the rise is driven by gradually strengthening export activity, a growing number of cargo bookings, and a limited supply of suitable vessels. As a result, logistics costs are once again becoming a more significant component of grain exports.
The most noticeable increase has been recorded in the Handysize segment. Freight rates for corn shipments from Ukraine's deep-water Black Sea ports to Italy's eastern coast have risen by approximately $1 per metric ton. Transportation from Danube ports using smaller vessels has also become more expensive, reflecting stronger demand for available tonnage ahead of the large-scale movement of the new harvest.
Despite higher freight rates, analysts note that the market is not yet experiencing a severe vessel shortage. Shipowners have gained stronger negotiating positions, but future freight dynamics will largely depend on harvest progress, export volumes, and overall conditions in the global shipping market. If grain exports accelerate rapidly, freight costs could continue to rise.
For Ukrainian exporters, higher freight rates translate into increased overall delivery costs. Nevertheless, Italy remains one of the largest European destinations for Ukrainian corn, ensuring continued trading activity on this route. Over the coming weeks, the balance between new-crop supply, import demand, and vessel availability will determine the further direction of freight rates.