Source: Ukragroconsult (Ukraine)
Argentina sunflower seed exports to EU markets have expanded significantly, according to Oil World data. Specifically, February shipments jumped from 113,000 to 216,000 tons compared to January. Moreover, exports to Bulgaria soared from 0,000 to 121,000 tons. Additionally, Romania increased its purchases from 33,000 to 73,000 tons. Meanwhile, Portugal maintained steady imports, rising slightly from 20,000 to 21,000 tons.
Impact on EU Processing Volumes
Thanks to active imports from Argentina, sunflower seed processing volumes in the EU in the second half of 2025/26 are expected to be higher than last year. Consequently, this growth will offset the decline recorded in the first half of the season. Furthermore, processors throughout Europe now benefit from this reliable South American supply source.
Argentina Sunflower Seed Exports to EU: Full Season Statistics
Overall, Argentina exported nearly 430,000 tonnes of sunflower seeds during October-February 2025/26. In comparison, the country shipped only 25,000 tonnes during the same period in 2024/25. Therefore, this represents an enormous year-over-year increase. The export breakdown includes:
- 290,000 tonnes to the EU
- 67,000 tonnes to South Africa
- 47,000 tonnes to Turkey
Additionally, sunflower seeds were exported to the US, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, and Algeria.
Production and Export Forecasts
According to analysts, Argentina’s sunflower production in 2026 will increase from 5.2 million tonnes to 6.1-6.2 million tonnes compared to the previous year. As a result, exports will total 800,000 tonnes.