Russian attacks on Black Sea ports cut Kernel’s edible oil sales by 48%

Agricultural holding company Kernel had to reduce its sales of edible oil by 48% in July-September 2026 due to shipping disruptions caused by Russian attacks on Black Sea ports.

Source: Kernel's operations update

Details: Grain exports fell by 54% in the same period to 574,000 tonnes. Kernel redirected some shipments through Danube ports and Ukraine's western land border.

Transhipment through the group's export terminals fell by 59% to 742,000 tonnes.

However, oilseed processing volumes remained almost unchanged year-on-year, at 564,000 tonnes. Sunflower seeds accounted for 59% of the total, with soybeans and rapeseed making up the rest.

Processing volumes were 13% lower than in the previous quarter due to a planned month-long shutdown of facilities ahead of the new season. Oil sales fell by 52% quarter-on-quarter, while grain exports dropped by 71%.

Background: In July 2026, Kernel suspended operations at its terminals in Chornomorsk following Russian attacks. The strikes damaged equipment, electricity networks, grain silos and oil storage tanks.

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