Source: Oleoscope (Russia)
Russia flaxseed exports EU have collapsed dramatically. Consequently, this shift affects global oilseed markets significantly. In January 2026, EU countries purchased only €96,500 worth of Russian flaxseed. Furthermore, this marks the lowest amount since July 2010. Over the month, flaxseed supplies to the EU fell 93-fold from €8.9 million. Additionally, they dropped 11-fold over the year. RIA Novosti reported these figures, citing Eurostat data.
Russia Flaxseed Exports EU: Market Impact
In January, Poland (€85,500) and Germany (€10,900) imported Russian flax. Moreover, Germany received negligible supplies. As a result, Russia dropped from third place in December to sixth place among EU suppliers. This represents a significant market shift.
Following the introduction of a 10% export duty, Russia is developing domestic processing. Furthermore, OleoScope analysts previously estimated that flaxseed oil production had doubled. Specifically, it reached 29,400 tonnes. The Rostov Region demonstrated the largest growth. Additionally, this came with the launch of ASVA’s largest flax processing plant in Russia.
Domestic Processing Expansion
The facility is designed to process approximately 150,000 tons of raw material per year. Consequently, it strengthens Russia’s vertical integration strategy. By the end of the year, the region’s oil production increased from zero to 17,100 tons. This represents remarkable growth.
Amid the shift in supply, Kazakhstan is hoping to capture the Union’s market share. Furthermore, flax raw material shipments from the Republic are projected to reach a record high. Specifically, they could hit 1 million tons. Therefore, Kazakhstan aims to replace Russian volumes in the EU market.