Ukrainian ports reached a new milestone in 2024, handling a total of 97.2 million tonnes of cargo, a significant increase compared to the 62 million tonnes processed in 2023. This remarkable achievement highlights the resilience of Ukraine’s maritime logistics even amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly the Russian invasion.
According to the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (AMPU), the most notable factors contributing to this success were the handling of grain and ore. Grain, a key export product for Ukraine, accounted for 60.3 million tonnes, while ore shipments reached 18.5 million tonnes. These goods played a pivotal role in the growth of port traffic.
A critical development for Ukraine’s maritime sector was the consistent operation of the Ukrainian Sea Corridor. Ports in the Greater Odessa area saw a substantial rise in cargo turnover, thanks to the smooth functioning of this vital route. In total, 3,138 ships used the Ukrainian Sea Corridor last year, contributing to an overall cargo turnover of 79.9 million tonnes, of which 76.4 million tonnes were exported to 52 countries.
The Ukrainian Sea Corridor’s success stands as a key accomplishment amidst the country’s ongoing efforts to recover and rebuild its economy. Despite Russian efforts to disrupt trade and block Ukraine’s ports, these figures demonstrate the strength and determination of Ukraine’s shipping industry, which continues to play a crucial role in the global economy.
