The first train containing exported grains from Ukraine travelled directly to Austria, arriving on 6 May. ÖBB Rail Cargo Group, responsible for the service, has already been transporting grain between Ukraine and the EU since the war started. However, this is the first train dedicated to the Austrian market.

RCG will deploy two monthly trains to export agricultural produce from Ukraine to Austria in the near future. “We are establishing a Green Corridor”, commented Austrian Minister of Agriculture Elisabeth Köstinger.

“The export of grain from Ukraine ensures the existential survival of the farmers and guarantees the security of supply for several countries at the same time – from Europe to Africa. RCG has always transported grain from Ukraine. Since the beginning of the war, however, transport has been increased – mainly in the direction of northern Germany. From March to April 2022, RCG organised thirty grain trains from Ukraine. In total, 60,000 tons of grain have already been transported. Since May, transport has doubled – grain trains are driving daily from Ukraine to the EU”, explained ÖBB.

Green corridor between Ukraine-Austria

The first Austria-dedicated grain train from Ukraine arrived in the upper Austrian district of Eferding on Friday, 6 May. It was carrying Ukrainian corn for animal feed. This train will not be the only one to run in the ‘Green Corridor’ between the two countries.

“Further planning envisages at least two grain transports per month from Ukraine to Austria. Here, too, an increase in the intervals is currently being examined. Each train consists of 25 bulk goods wagons, and each transports 1,400 tons of grain. After appropriate cleaning, the trolleys can also be used for organic goods and groceries,” said ÖBB.

“By creating Green Corridors, we are helping Ukraine, which otherwise would not be able to export their goods. And we help to maintain the supply of agricultural raw materials and food. Our goal is to increasingly position Austria as a hub for raw material deliveries from Ukraine in the future”, emphasised Köstinger.