Ukraine’s mining and metals sector is under threat due to logistics issues and tariffs

METALLURGY, Top - theme 14.08.2026 / author:
Ukraine’s mining and metals sector is under threat due to logistics issues and tariffs

Due to the blockade of sea routes and the increase in railway tariffs, Ukrainian metallurgical enterprises are in a crisis. The cessation of production and the sharp decline in exports threaten the industry.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Анна Шиканова) citing GMK Center, according to the portal PromPolitInform.

Ukraine’s mining and metals sector is facing critical logistical difficulties caused by the inability to fully utilize Black Sea ports. This was reported by Oleksandr Kalenkov, President of the Ukrmetallurgprom association.

Alternative export routes remain unprofitable for producers. Delivering products to Gdansk costs up to 60 dollars per ton, and Danube ports are currently limited in capacity due to natural factors and congestion.

Industry production capacities are under threat of total stoppage

Due to the lack of access to maritime infrastructure, the activities of many enterprises have been suspended or limited. Specifically, Poltava Mining has significantly reduced production, while Southern and Ingulets mining combines are idle.

The situation is exacerbated by the decision to increase Ukrzaliznytsia freight tariffs by 30%. Oleksandr Kalenkov emphasized that under conditions where total transport costs have nearly doubled, such financial burdens require immediate review by the government.

The industry requires state support to overcome the crisis

The combination of high energy costs, new EU trade restrictions, and expensive logistics creates critical conditions for domestic production. Experts emphasize that without government intervention and the assistance of international partners, the country risks losing more than 50% of its metallurgical export volumes.

Photo: RBC-Ukraine

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