CropGPT - Sunflower - Week 22

CropGPT - Oils

This episode offers a comprehensive overview of the evolving global sunflower market, highlighting key production trends, policy changes, and export developments across major producing regions.

• United States: Sunflower acreage is projected to increase by 49% in 2025 to over 1.07 million acres, primarily driven by a 62% rise in oil-type sunflower planting. Oil-type sunflower production is forecasted to grow by 70% to 1.61 billion pounds. Domestic sunflower crushing and oil consumption are also expected to rise, reaching 937 million and 681 million pounds respectively, with oil exports projected at 85 million pounds.
• Ukraine: Despite geopolitical disruptions, the country remains a dominant player in global sunflower oil trade. Farmers are adapting to increased weed pressure by adopting Corteva Agriscience’s Aerelex Active and Helientex herbicides, improving crop management flexibility amid climatic changes.
• Argentina: Achieved a record sunflower harvest of 4.7 million tons in the 2023–24 season, supported by expanded acreage and favorable weather. The national average yield reached 23.4 bags/hectare. Export revenues are estimated at USD 1.52 billion, with a total economic impact of USD 2.04 billion.
• Russia: Notable growth in domestic seed self-sufficiency was observed, particularly in Krasnodar Krai, where the share of local sunflower and corn seed use rose to 55%. Export duties for sunflower oil and meal were sharply increased in June, reaching RUB 7,120 (USD 98) and RUB 912 (USD 17) per ton, respectively. These regulatory changes are expected to impact global trade flows and pricing strategies.