26.08.2026, 00:56
Russia May Temporarily Suspend Export Duties on Wheat, Barley and Corn
Difficulties with grain shipments through ports in the Azov-Black Sea basin have increased pressure on domestic prices
Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture is preparing a proposal to temporarily suspend the “floating” export duty on wheat, barley and corn until the end of the current year. The possibility of introducing a moratorium is being considered amid difficulties with grain shipments through ports in the Azov-Black Sea basin, which are key routes for Russian agricultural exports.
According to Vedomosti, citing two sources familiar with the situation in the Russian grain market, shipping problems in the Azov-Black Sea region have already affected domestic grain prices.
The most significant decline in prices has been observed in southern regions, which are heavily dependent on export shipments. According to market participants, producer purchase prices for wheat in southern Russia have fallen to 8,900–10,000 rubles per tonne.
In Krasnodar Territory, grain prices have fallen below 9,000 rubles per tonne. At the same time, the production cost of the 2026 harvest is estimated at 12,000–13,500 rubles per tonne.
According to expert estimates, the temporary suspension of export duties could reduce the fiscal burden on agricultural producers and make export transactions more predictable.
Currently, traders factor the risks of weekly changes in export duty rates into purchase prices. At the same time, farmers are facing a shortage of financial resources ahead of the new sowing campaign.
However, the possible introduction of a moratorium alone will not eliminate logistical constraints. If difficulties with exports through the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov persist, excess grain supply may remain on the domestic market, continuing to put pressure on prices and the profitability of agricultural enterprises.
In this regard, other measures to support the sector are also being considered. These include support for rail transportation of grain, purchases for the intervention fund, extensions of concessional loans and subsidies for each tonne of grain sold.
If the package of measures is adopted, farmers could receive additional support during a period of low prices and high logistics costs, as well as while preparing for autumn fieldwork.
At the same time, the effectiveness of the proposed measures will depend on how quickly export channels can be restored and demand for Russian grain from buyers resumes.
