Author: Dr. Hanna Shelest
Field: Policy Brief
Type: Report
This policy brief analyzes Romania’s role in facilitating Ukrainian exports amid wartime disruptions caused by Russia’s blockade of Ukrainian seaports. Before the war, Ukraine heavily relied on maritime trade, exporting up to 7 million tons of grain per month. With traditional trade routes obstructed, Romania has emerged as a crucial transit hub, providing alternative transport corridors via rail, road, and the Danube River.
The report examines the existing infrastructure challenges, including differences in railway gauge, limited border crossing capacity, and logistical bottlenecks at key transport hubs. It highlights Romania’s ongoing efforts to improve transportation links, such as reopening Soviet-era rail lines, expanding port operations in Constanța and Galați, and increasing ferry and border checkpoint capacities.
Key policy recommendations include upgrading border infrastructure, expanding port storage facilities, enhancing Danube logistics, and implementing long-term strategies for sustainable trade cooperation. The brief underscores the importance of EU and NATO-backed initiatives, such as the ‘Solidarity Lanes’ project, in securing food supply chains and supporting Ukraine’s economic resilience during the war.
This document serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, trade analysts, and stakeholders interested in regional economic stability and security in Eastern Europe.