Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
As of 24 September 2026, disruptions in the Red Sea and Panama Canal were causing vessels to use longer routes, while high fuel costs were limiting vessel speeds and reducing effective fleet capacity.
During September 15-21, 2026, flooding and wind were the main causes of reported crop damage in Saskatchewan. Losses were also reported in low-lying areas due to water accumulation.
As of September 21, 2026, harvest in Saskatchewan was 41% complete, compared with a five-year average of 82% and a ten-year average of 73%. Rainfall, high humidity and wet field conditions continued to delay harvest operations.
More than 15 million tonnes of grains and oilseeds were shipped via the Cape of Good Hope in August 2026, compared with around 5 million tonnes via the Suez and Panama routes combined; vessels continued to take longer journeys.
As of 24 September 2026, dry bulk vessels continued to largely avoid the Suez Canal because of ongoing security threats around the Red Sea; reduced Black Sea grain exports could also limit volumes.
As of 24 September 2026, the El Niño-linked drop in rainfall had lowered water levels at the Panama Canal, leading to a cut in the number of vessels able to transit.
15% year-on-year was the increase in the IGC Grains and Oilseeds Freight Index (GOFI) in mid-September 2026, when it reached a four-year high.
Above its previous five- and ten-year averages was the GOFI in mid-September 2026.
51% was the increase in average grains and oilseeds freight costs between January 2025 and September 2026, according to the IGC Grains and Oilseeds Freight Index (GOFI).
Well below the peaks recorded during the COVID-19-linked disruptions of 2020 and 2021, the GOFI remained in mid-September 2026.
