Farmers in Moldova demand explanation of 50% discount on transit of Ukrainian cargo and warn of risks

Moldovan farmers are demanding that the government disclose the conditions for granting a 50% discount on rail transit of Ukrainian cargo and explain how the new tariff will affect the export of local products. At the same time, the Moldovan authorities expect the agreement to attract additional cargo flows and generate several million euros in revenue for the railways.

The Association of Grain and Oilseed Producers and Processors Forța Fermierilor said it learned about the new tariff from a statement by the Prime Minister of Ukraine, which was previously reported by Kurs Ukrainy. According to the farmers, the decision was made without consultations with local producers and exporters.

The 50% discount on rail transit of Ukrainian cargo through Moldova is effective from August 10 until the end of 2026. It is intended to reduce costs for Ukrainian exporters amid Russian attacks on port and transport infrastructure.

Farmers fear shortage of wagons

Forța Fermierilor stressed that it is interested in the speedy shipment of Ukrainian grain and oilseeds, as their large stocks are putting pressure on prices in the region. However, the association demands that the interests of Moldovan producers, who are also starting active exports of the new harvest, be taken into account.

Farmers fear that increased transit could lead to a shortage of wagons, rising logistics costs, and difficulties in exporting Moldovan grains over the next four months. In July, almost a third of Moldova's wheat exports were transported by rail.

Separately, farmers warned of a possible shortage of trucks and congestion at border crossing points with Romania if part of the Ukrainian products is transported by road. The association also believes that increased supply could cause a drop in domestic prices for grains and oilseeds.

Government expects millions in revenue

Moldovan government representative Dumitru Ciorici told Moldpres that Ukraine plans to transport up to 6 million tons of cargo via various regional routes. Moldova wants to attract about 10% of this volume - approximately 600 thousand tons.

According to Ciorici, tariff discounts are a common way to attract large transit flows. The authorities expect that transportation will remain profitable even with the discount, and potential revenues for the state company Calea Ferată din Moldova will amount to several million euros.

At the same time, Forța Fermierilor demands the temporary introduction of licensing for imports of Ukrainian grains and oilseeds. The association fears that some products declared as transit may remain in Moldova or be subsequently exported with a changed country of origin. The farmers did not provide evidence of such operations.

The organization also requested an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister of Moldova. If the authorities continue to ignore the appeals, the association allows the use of legally provided means to protect the interests of local producers.

Based on materials from: Forța Fermierilor, Moldpres