The Turkish Agricultural Diplomacy Group (TTDG) has proposed creating an international mechanism to protect agricultural trade and civilian shipping in the Black Sea as attacks on ports, terminals and commercial vessels intensify. Miller Magazine reported this.
The initiative envisages establishing a Black Sea Food and Agricultural Trade Security Mechanism, facilitated by Turkey and involving the UN, international organisations, Black Sea countries, financial institutions, and representatives of the agricultural, shipping and insurance sectors.
The mechanism would include:
- a limited agreement prohibiting strikes on grain infrastructure;
- a safe-passage system for civilian vessels carrying food;
- international coordination through a centre based in Turkey;
- a verified registry of vessels transporting agricultural products;
- a war-risk insurance and guarantee mechanism;
- expanded capacity for alternative routes via the Danube, rail and road transport;
- an early-warning system for risks to food supplies.
According to the TTDG, Ukrainian grain exports fell by approximately 69% between August 1 and 21 compared with the same period in 2025. As cargo was redirected to alternative routes, a queue of around 80 vessels formed near the Sulina Canal.
