PARIS / RankWire.AI / – European wheat prices increased during the latest trading session amid ongoing supply concerns caused by disruptions in Black Sea grain exports. On Monday, the December wheat contract on Paris-based Euronext closed 0.9% higher at €243.75 per metric ton, rebounding from losses in the previous two sessions. Meanwhile, Chicago wheat gained approximately 2%, supported by stronger corn prices which bolstered the overall grain market.
The flow of shipments from the Black Sea remains significantly restricted due to repeated attacks on vessels and port facilities tied to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Grain exports by sea from Russia and Ukraine through the region have nearly halted, significantly limiting one of the world’s key routes for wheat and other grain shipments. Since Russia and Ukraine represent major sources of international grain trade, European wheat markets are still closely tied to Black Sea availability.
With traditional Black Sea routes disrupted, Russia has shifted a larger share of its grain exports to Baltic and Arctic ports. Ports such as Ust-Luga, St. Petersburg, and Murmansk, previously used for products like fertilizer and coal, are now handling increased grain volumes. During the last export season, nearly 90% of Russia’s seaborne grain exports went through Black Sea ports. Although alternative routes are now carrying additional cargoes, their volumes remain below the levels typically transported via southern ports.
Disruption in Black Sea alters global grain movement
Despite rising wheat prices, demand for imports stays robust. The Trading Corporation of Pakistan finalized purchases totaling 365,000 metric tons after initially seeking 750,000 tons in an international tender. Pakistan then launched a second tender for an additional 185,000 tons of wheat, according to its public procurement notice. This latest call for bids targets 2026 crop wheat for bulk delivery to Karachi or Gwadar, with bids due by September 28.
Pakistan has adjusted its wheat import target to 550,000 metric tons following reductions in provincial requirements. The total acquisitions so far amount to 365,000 tons, with the current tender covering the remaining 185,000 tons. The country’s increased demand stems from lower domestic crop yields, which have raised its wheat import needs. These purchases come at a time when shipments from two major Black Sea exporters face severe logistical restrictions, boosting international demand.
Russian grain exports shift toward alternative ports
Russia has increasingly diverted grain shipments toward northern and western ports, utilizing rail links to reach Baltic terminals. Ports such as Ust-Luga and St. Petersburg are now handling larger grain volumes, and Murmansk has also begun processing shipments. These shifts follow months of disruption around Black Sea ports and shipping lanes, expanding Russia’s export options during 2026. Nonetheless, Black Sea ports continue to handle the majority of Russia’s seaborne grain, based on recent shipment volumes.
For European wheat, Monday’s session saw the December Euronext contract rise to €243.75 a ton after two consecutive declines. At the same time, Chicago wheat’s roughly 2% increase strengthened futures prices across major grain markets. These movements coincided with reduced Black Sea exports, increased use of alternative Russian ports, and fresh wheat purchasing by Pakistan. Such factors have shaped the ongoing grain market landscape as trading resumed at the start of the week.