Low water levels in the Danube and high fuel prices force vessels to carry less cargo
The cost of transporting one tonne of grain from the international port of Giurgiulesti to Constanta has reached 75 dollars. Previously, this figure fluctuated between 15 and 35 dollars. This was reported by Moldova 1, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Logistics complications in the region are driven by several factors, including high fuel prices and critically low water levels in the Danube and Prut rivers. Due to limited depth, vessels are forced to reduce loading volumes, which significantly increases transportation costs and creates a deficit of transport means.
Port operation optimization
The management of Giurgiulesti port announced a new loading scheme to streamline processes. The company has obtained all necessary permits from Romanian customs and border authorities to conduct partial loading of vessels directly at the berth, followed by additional loading from barges in the Mile 72 area.
This approach will reduce downtime for merchant ships at ports and improve fleet efficiency. A specialized floating crane has already been engaged for these operations, and all relevant approvals from the Romanian side have been received.
Regional infrastructure challenges
During an industry forum in Chisinau, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development Vladimir Bolea outlined additional obstacles affecting economic performance. In particular, the mismatch of railway gauges with European standards remains a significant burden for exporters, requiring additional costs for cargo transshipment.
The limitations of Chisinau Airport for developing air cargo services were also highlighted. The current service volume of approximately 180 flights does not allow the facility to fully function as a regional logistics hub for cargo shipments.
The war in Ukraine has fundamentally altered supply routes, turning Danube ports, including Reni and Izmail, into critical nodes of the global chain. Increased pressure on rail and road infrastructure heightens the burden on logistics systems in neighboring countries, which are forced to adapt to new trade conditions and security risks.
Illustrative photo: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chris Roys / Public domain
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