Grain shipments affected by Russia's closure of the Don-Azov waterway

11-Jul-2026 12:46 PM

Moscow: Russia has temporarily closed its Don-Azov waterway in response to Ukrainian attacks, raising concerns that export shipments of grain and other agricultural products could be disrupted.

This waterway accounts for approximately 25 percent of Russia's exports. Border guards have directed vessels to use the Kerch Strait route instead.

Amidst fears of disrupted Russian exports, wheat futures on the Paris-based Euronext exchange rose by up to 4 percent, reaching a six-week high. The Don-Azov waterway is considered a vital and convenient route for Russia, connecting the Don River to the Sea of ​​Azov. Transporting wheat via this waterway is cost-effective.

It is worth noting that Russia is the world's leading wheat exporter and the third-largest producer. Any disruption to shipments of this key grain from Russia would benefit other exporting nations. Russian wheat is typically available at the lowest prices.

The Kerch Strait, which connects the Sea of ​​Azov and the Black Sea, is also being closed for several hours. There is currently no information on how long this situation will persist. Russia's two leading wheat-producing regions—Rostov and Krasnodar—are located near the Sea of ​​Azov.