KYIV, Ukraine (AP) - Ukraine's grain industry is experiencing a resurgence as its new shipping corridor, established after Russia's withdrawal from a U.N.-brokered agreement, allows for increased exports to countries suffering from food insecurity. Despite the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, more ships are heading towards Ukraine's Black Sea ports, loaded with grain and other cargo.

The central storage facility in Ukraine has become a crucial hub for companies struggling to export food to regions grappling with hunger. With the launch of the new shipping corridor, the facility's general director, Roman Andreikiv, states that they have been able to free up warehouse space and increase activity.

The escalating number of ships heading to Ukraine's Black Sea ports is bringing a much-needed boost to Ukraine's agriculture-dependent economy. It is also contributing to the availability of affordable food products, including wheat, corn, barley, and sunflower oil, for regions in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, where local food prices have risen.

Experts have noted renewed confidence among commercial operators in taking Ukrainian grain cargoes, despite the risk of attack and floating explosive mines in the region. Munro Anderson, head of operations for Vessel Protect, acknowledges the growing interest in Ukrainian grain cargoes and states that a sense of optimism is prevailing.

Agroprosperis Group, one of Ukraine's largest agricultural producers and exporters, has already shipped over 300,000 metric tons of grain to countries such as Egypt, Spain, China, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, Tunisia, and Turkey since the launch of the new corridor in mid-September.

Russia's attack on Ukraine's Black Sea ports and grain infrastructure has been devastating, with enough food destroyed to feed over one million people for a year, according to the U.K. government. The main challenge for the new shipping corridor remains the risk to vessels, as Russia warned that ships heading to Ukraine's ports would be treated as carrying weapons.

Acknowledging this risk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that allies will provide ships to protect commercial vessels in the Black Sea. However, he emphasized the need for additional air defense systems to enhance security.

Despite the challenges, Ukraine has managed to export over 5.6 million metric tons of grain and other products through the new corridor, albeit at a slower pace compared to the pre-war period. The current transportation methods are more expensive and time-consuming, but they enable the country to continue exporting its agricultural products.

Farmers, however, are grappling with low grain prices, which discourage trucking to the often-attacked port of Odesa. Slavhorod, a farming company located near the front line, has opted to store its peas, wheat, soybeans, sunflower, and corn in warehouses due to the risk posed by explosive mines near the border with Russia.

Ukraine's previous food supplies to countries in need were hindered by delays caused by Russia's slow ship inspections during the year-long U.N. deal. Now, the Ukrainian military determines when it is safe for vessels to sail, providing a more predictable transportation process.

Amidst the ongoing military and safety risks, insurance companies have partnered with the Ukrainian government to offer affordable coverage for Black Sea grain shipments, providing shippers with peace of mind.

Ukraine's new shipping corridor aims to export at least 6 million metric tons of grain per month, according to Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi. While challenges remain, the Ukrainian government remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing their determination to continue fighting for the success of the country's vital agricultural industry.