For the first time since the 1990s, Hungarian agricultural producers reported a shortage of corn, the main reason for which was a severe drought. This year’s grain harvest in the country is projected to be in the range of 2.6 to 3.8 million tons, while its domestic consumption is about 4-4.5 million tons, reports “ProAgro Group”.
In this situation, according to media reports, Hungary, despite the sharp political disagreements between Budapest and Kyiv, expects to cover the deficit by importing corn from Ukraine, where a high harvest is expected and there are large grain residues from last season.
Despite the fact that transportation of products from Ukraine is complicated, Hungary has already purchased quite a large amount of corn.
“The exact amount has not yet been disclosed, but 1 million tons have already been imported,” – said the Secretary General of the Association of Hungarian Grain Producers Zsófia Potska.
In order to facilitate the import of Ukrainian grain, Hungary is going to modernize the border transshipment railway junction Zahony in order to increase its capacity – 12.4 billion forints (30.6 million euros) have already been allocated for this purpose. At the same time, the country’s authorities declare their desire to help Ukraine with the export of grain in transit through its territory.
