The war between Israel, the United States and Iran is already affecting the flow of agricultural commodities from South America to Iran, particularly feed, with some soymeal cargoes said to have been washed out, market sources told Fastmarkets in the week to Thursday March 5.

The Ukrainian shipping market is concerned about a potential reshuffling of tonnage following Russia’s policy banning vessels that have previously called at European or Ukrainian ports. Market data from International Seaborne Market (ISM), however, so far paints a less pessimistic picture, Fastmarkets learned.

Four years after Russia’s unprovoked, attempted full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Fastmarkets examines how the war has reshaped the Ukrainian and global steel and grain markets, outlining the key challenges faced by these sectors as they have adapted and endured.

Wheat futures pushed higher across major exchanges on Friday February 20, supported by firm sentiment in the Black Sea and steady export premiums in key origins.

After 26 years of discussion and strong opposition from European farmers, the European Union has approved the EU-Mercosur trade agreement on Friday January 9. The agreement provides for the gradual reduction of tariffs, common rules for trade in industrial and agricultural products, investments, and regulatory standards.

Crude palm oil (CPO) futures rebounded from three days of losses to recover to its highest in three weeks on Friday January 16, spurred by gains across the broader vegoil complex and pre-weekend positioning while further indications of a slowing pace of production also lent support.

Ukraine’s corn exports have slowed to their lowest level in a decade despite a solid harvest, with continued logistical constraints restricting shipment volumes and consequently supporting prices.

Chicago and Kansas wheat futures decreased on Friday December 5 as market participants focused on ample global supplies and favorable growing conditions in competing export regions, such as Europe and Canada.

The 2026 Black Sea Wheat and Corn Outlook highlights a stabilized yet evolving grain market, with Russia and Ukraine adapting to post-conflict logistics, competitive pricing, and strong production despite ongoing regional challenges.

The Global Grain Geneva 2025 Conference highlighted an industry navigating a "new normal" of uncertainty, where geopolitical upheavals, climate challenges, and sustainability demands are reshaping grain markets, supply chains, and risk strategies.