On the 34th week, the growth of freight rates in Azov-Black Sea region has somewhat slowed down in comparison with rates of last two weeks. Thus, contracts for a shipment of 3000 tonnes of wheat from Azov to Marmara Sea ports are concluded at $52 pmt. There is still a strong demand for Russian grain from Turkish buyers, and there are also more and more enquiries for shipmets to Israel, Italy, Greece and Egypt. It should be noted that rates for long destinations are growing faster than for Marmara Sea ports, as ship owners continue to prefer short shoulder voyages. Besides, the situation in the region is strongly influenced by the large queue of vessels in the Kerch Strait, with most vessels waiting about a week for passage. In addition, it should be noted that this week the export fee for wheat exports has increased again, it will be 4,269.9 rubles against 3,712.8 rubles per tonne a week earlier. The tax on barley has also increased significantly – up to 860.3 rubles against 439.6 rubles per tonne, while the tax on corn will increase to 2,495.3 rubles from 2,175.1 rubles per tonne.