Kathmandu— Wheat prices have reached a three-year high as Russia-Ukraine conflict continues, with both countries stepping up attacks on each other’s grain terminals in the Black Sea. Additionally, droughts are impacting wheat production worldwide, particularly in South Africa and Europe. These disruptions have led to significant supply chain issues and increased shipping costs, driving global wheat prices higher.

Impact of Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Over the past month, strikes on ports, vessels, and grain facilities amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict have disrupted grain terminals and forced shippers to delay or cancel cargo loadings during the peak export season. According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Infrastructure, in July alone, there were 35 Russian attacks on vessels in port, 22 at sea, and 67 on port facilities. This has led to a significant curtailment of grain exports from both countries, driving up prices.

Climate Change's Role

Droughts and drier weather patterns have also taken a toll on wheat production. In the US, one of the largest wheat exporters, yields are forecast to be down 8.2 bushels from last year’s average yield of 54.9 bushels per acre. Canada's total wheat production is expected to drop by 13 percent due to reduced planted area and lower-than-average yields. European countries have also seen a reduction in grain crops, with excessive heat affecting corn pollination in southern France and Hungary.

Mitigation Strategies

Experts suggest that bringing prices down would require a major shift in war strategy by both Russia and Ukraine. The impact of climate change could be mitigated through improved water management on farms, such as the use of reservoirs to support drought-affected crops. Alternative shipping routes exist but are costly. Glauber noted that other wheat-producing countries like India could step up exports to mitigate shortages.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.