This episode offers an in-depth overview of the global sunflower market as of July 6, 2025.

• In Ukraine, subdued domestic processing demand and weak international oil markets are impacting sunflower activity. Despite reaching sowing levels comparable to the previous year (5,017,000 hectares), many farmers are shifting to soybeans. Sunflower prices remain relatively stable, but are being pressured by processor expectations of a larger upcoming harvest. Export revenues from sunflower oil have dipped slightly to USD 4.65 billion, and sunflower meal exports have dropped 30% due to reduced demand from the EU and China and growing competition from Argentina, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Some processors are pivoting to sunflower kernel production to meet European demand, targeting 30,000 tons by 2026.
• Russia anticipates a record-high sunflower crop of 17.5 million tons in 2025. While oil and meal exports are down due to poor margins, the sowing area has expanded to 11.4 million hectares. The Russian government plans to cut sunflower oil export duties by nearly 50% through August 2026 to stimulate the sector. Meanwhile, Argentina has seen strong processing growth and increased sunflower oil exports, driven by favorable harvest conditions and a yield forecast of 4.7 million tons, with India emerging as a key buyer.
• Romania expects a 50% increase in sunflower output year-over-year. However, local refiners are struggling with high raw material costs and low profitability, leading them to import crude sunflower oil from Ukraine to sustain processing activities.
• Kazakhstan has reinstated its record sowing area of 3.4 million hectares. Sunflowers, praised for their drought resistance and revenue potential, have become the country's most profitable crop. Kazakhstan is now a key exporter of sunflower oil and meal, especially to the EU and China.
• In Brazil, the state of Goias is set to deliver a record sunflower harvest of 71,000 tons, making up over 71% of national production. This surge is attributed to favorable weather and effective crop rotation, showcasing sunflower's adaptability and economic appeal.