The consequences of blocking Ukrainian ports will be global for the whole world. Food prices, even in Europe, could rise by 25-30%.
This was announced at a briefing by Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Mykola Solskyi, LB correspondent reports.
"The consequences of aggression (on the food security of the world - ed.) Are clear and obvious. Another issue is that they have not been fully felt. Because there are still reserves. Some countries, such as China, behaved aggressively in the market last year. But they formed much larger reserves than in ordinary times. Other countries: North Africa and the Middle East - have certain reserves of grain. But much is focused on the new harvest. But there is still a conditional hope that in 2-3 and 4 months something else will change," he said.
Solskyi emphasized that if the countries “do not see a large flow of grain from the ports of Ukraine, a mood close to panic will begin in late July. Because for them it is already critical. Now they are overpaying. But it is the second month. Probably it is not so painful. But when they see what will happen in 2-3 months, provided that Ukrainian ports are not unblocked, there are no other logistical routes, we will hear their voices more and more. "
According to his estimates, the shortage of Ukrainian grain will have global consequences.
"This is already reflected in food prices in any country in the world. Because there is a general balance of supply and demand. Nobody removed it. It's the end of the season and it's not felt that way yet... I think that even countries that have never thought about it will feel it. When even in European countries meat and eggs on the shelves become more expensive by 25-30%, which is quite possible in the near future..., all these statements will be louder and louder," Solskyi said.
Solskyi also said that the occupiers had exported up to 500,000 tons of grain to the Crimea, and Ukraine's losses amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars.
According to the Minister, Ukraine has sown 25-30% fewer crops than last year. The volume of spring corn has been reduced, and farmers are switching to cheaper crops due to problems with logistics, fuel and equipment.
In late March, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine dismissed Roman Leshchenko from the post of Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food. The Rada appointed Mykola Solskyi, who headed the parliamentary committee on agrarian and land policy, in his place.