Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seed market tightens further
Sunflower seed stocks are nearing critical lows as processing and exports were heavily frontloaded earlier in the season.
- Russia’s record 7.8M tonne harvest (Sep–Jan) offers little relief due to small kernel size and early sales.
- Ukrainian processing is down 35% year-on-year, with no significant carry-over expected.
- Mills are switching to other oilseeds or idling due to lack of supply, while rapeseed prices are up 9%.
- Farmers remain reluctant to sell, and market offers don’t reflect underlying scarcity.
With 4+ months until new crop, tight supply and high raw material prices will continue to pressure the market.