Since 6 November 2023, Polish carriers have been on strike at the Ukrainian border, blocking three crossing points and significantly reducing border crossing capacity . As a result, logistics with Ukraine became more complex due to longer delivery times and higher costs. The strike organisers are demanding the reinstatement of permits for Ukrainian companies. Polish carriers, which have the largest fleet in the EU, fear competition with Ukrainian carriers.
This situation seriously affects the positions of Ukrainian exporters. According to a Ukrainian manufacturer of automotive components, the average delivery time is now 30% longer, and the cost of delivery has increased by about 20%. But the main problem is the uncertainty of terms. Thus, according to an agro-products trader, a deal to deliver 100 trucks of agricultural products to the EU was canceled for this reason. For companies that have signed long-term contracts for the supply of their goods, because of the risks, it becomes necessary to keep a much larger volume of goods in stock in the EU countries to fulfill contractual obligations despite unpredictable border crossing deadlines.
In addition, the blocking of the border is also reflected in the reduction of imported goods to Ukraine. Such essential goods as fuel and food are under the threat of serious under supply in the Ukrainian market. Thus, many market players expect a shortage of imported goods by January.
Logistics through other countries remains open for trade. However, as an example, redirecting a truck from the Polish border to the Romanian border will require additional costs and delivery time.
