On the 52nd week the downward trend in freight rates in the Azov–Black Sea region continues. Freight level for a 3,000-ton shipment of wheat from Azov to Marmara Sea ports have declined to USD 34 per ton. Trading activity ahead of the New Year holidays is weakening further, with most negotiations currently focused on shipments scheduled for mid-January.
After remaining at zero for two consecutive weeks, the Russian export duty on wheat will be set at 109.1 rubles per ton from December, 24. Export duties on barley and corn remain at zero.