Reuters: Moldova rail could ship 4.5m tons of Ukrainian grain annually
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Ukraine and Moldova are in talks over a rail transit route for Ukrainian grain that a former Moldovan official estimates could handle 4.5 million tonnes per year, aimed at providing a safer export path as Black Sea shipping faces heightened Russian attacks. The discussions, reported by Reuters on Monday, include Ukraine’s request for a 50 percent rail tariff discount and Chisinau’s call for guaranteed volumes.
Route and Capacity
The proposed corridor would run from Ukraine through Moldova to the Romanian Black Sea port of Constanta. Oleg Tofilat, former head of Moldova’s state railway, told Reuters the route could move up to 4.5 million tonnes of grain annually. Ukrainian officials estimate such a route could handle about 10 percent of the country’s grain exports. Moldova previously provided rail transit for Ukrainian grain in 2022-2023, but the service lapsed.
Tariff Negotiations
Kyiv has asked Chisinau for a 50 percent discount on nominal shipping rates, according to sources cited by Reuters. Moldova’s railway company has responded by seeking guarantees from Ukraine on minimum shipment volumes. A senior Ukrainian industry representative said data on potential volumes is still being collected from shippers, while a Moldovan rail official confirmed both sides were discussing timelines and quantities.
Security Context
The push for rail transit comes as Russian attacks on Ukraine’s Black Sea ports and shipping have intensified in recent months. The security corridor that allows grain shipments from Odesa to Romanian waters has been repeatedly targeted, hampering maritime exports. On August 10, Moldova’s infrastructure minister Vladimir Bolea visited Odesa region to discuss rail improvements with his Ukrainian counterpart, underscoring the urgency.
What's Next
Negotiations on tariffs and volume commitments are expected to continue in the coming weeks. It remains unclear whether Moldova will agree to substantial tariff cuts without firm Ukrainian guarantees, or whether the rail route can fully offset Black Sea export disruptions.
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Reuters: Moldova rail could ship 4.5m tons of Ukrainian grain annually
