The Ukrainian grain market has recorded an increase in export prices for corn. The main factors were the introduction of import quotas by Turkey, the activation of global demand and the general situation on international exchanges. In addition, price dynamics are affected by fluctuations on American exchanges and seasonal processes. This is reported by the Grain Exchange.

The key driver of the price increase was Turkey’s decision to introduce an import quota for corn in the amount of 3 million tons with a reduced duty of 5%. The quota will be valid from April 20 to July 31, 2026 and has already supported the market. As a result, export corn prices increased by approximately $2-3 per ton during the week, opening up additional opportunities for Ukrainian suppliers.

An increase in value was also recorded on the domestic market of Ukraine. Export prices for corn increased by 150–200 UAH per ton per week and reached 10,800–10,900 UAH/t or 217–219 $/t with delivery to Black Sea ports. An additional factor was the strengthening of the dollar against the hryvnia, which also supported price dynamics.

Despite this, export activity remains high. In the period from April 1 to 17, Ukraine exported 1.36 million tons of corn, which is 30% more than in the same period last year. At the same time, the total volume of exports in the current season is 15.65 million tons, which is 15% less than last year.

Positive price trends are also observed on world markets. In the USA, corn quotes in Chicago increased by 2.3% per week, partially compensating for the previous decline. Prices are supported by delays in the sowing campaign and consistently high demand for American grain, which remains one of the most affordable in terms of cost.

May corn futures on the Chicago Board of Trade rose by 2.7% to $178/t, while December contracts are trading at $188.6/t, up $10.6/t. This indicates that market participants remain positive about future demand.

According to NASS Crop Progress, 11% of the planned corn area has been sown in the US as of the reporting period, which is slightly higher than the five-year average. Expected precipitation and rising temperatures may accelerate the pace of the sowing campaign in the coming weeks.

US export figures are also showing growth. Corn shipments increased by 2.9% over the week to 1.67 million tons. In total, since the beginning of the season, exports have amounted to 51.71 million tons, which is 31.8% more than in the same period last year.

At the same time, the market is under pressure from the increase in the cost of nitrogen fertilizers caused by geopolitical tensions. This increases the cost of corn production in the new season and creates additional risks for farmers.

The situation in North Africa is worth noting separately: the Grain Agency of Tunisia canceled a tender for the purchase of 25 thousand tons of feed corn due to high bid prices. The lowest offered price was $ 266.65 / t C&F and was submitted by Ameropa.