Ukraine’s seaports handled 16.7% less cargo in the first half of this year than during the same period last year.

Of the 66 million tons, ore accounted for 19 million tons – down 16% — and grain was 17 million tons – down 27.6%. Overall export cargo was 50.4 million tons – down 16.4%. Despite the volume drops, high commodity prices pushed Ukraine’s export earnings up 30%, to $30 billion, according to the State Customs Service.