Kazakhstan rapeseed exports surge is one of the most striking developments in the global oilseeds market this season. Since the start of the 2025/26 marketing year, shipments of Kazakhstani rapeseed have grown 1.8-fold, setting a near-record pace. Furthermore, Russia holds its position as the primary importer of this crop, accounting for 35% of total shipments. Meanwhile, China has dramatically ramped up its purchases, increasing its imports of Kazakhstani rapeseed by a factor of ten. Together, these trends signal a major reshaping of Kazakhstan’s oilseed export geography.
Kazakhstan Rapeseed Exports Surge: Season Results After Seven Months
Based on the results of the first seven months of the season, Kazakhstan’s rapeseed exports reached 173,000 tons. Moreover, this figure is nearly 40% higher than the total volume recorded for the entire previous marketing year. Thus, the country has already realized a significant portion of its export potential well before the season’s end.
Among key export destinations, shipments to Russia saw the most substantial growth. Specifically, they rose to 60,600 tons — a 2.24-fold increase compared to the previous year. Furthermore, even more impressive dynamics emerged in trade with China, where exports surged 81.5-fold to reach 32,600 tons. Additionally, moderate growth appeared in shipments to Poland, rising to 19,700 tons (+11%).
New Markets Open as Kazakhstan Diversifies Rapeseed Destinations
In addition to its traditional markets, Kazakhstan has expanded the geographical reach of its oilseed exports. During the first half of the season, shipments reached new destinations — countries to which no exports had previously been made during this period:
- Denmark — 2,000 tons
- Iran — 2,700 tons
- Afghanistan — 1,700 tons
This geographical diversification reflects the growing global demand for Kazakhstani rapeseed and the country’s ability to tap new trade routes effectively.
EU Shipments Fall as Overall Export Pace Stays Near Record High
Conversely, a decline in exports to certain EU countries has been observed. Specifically, shipments to Estonia fell by 17% to 5,300 tons. Moreover, shipments to Latvia dropped by 43.5% to 19,300 tons. Additionally, shipments to France have effectively ceased entirely. According to expert estimates, however, current export rates are among the highest recorded in the last eight years. Furthermore, 82.5% of the projected annual volume of 210,000 tons has already been realized within just seven months.
Source: Ukragroconsult (Ukraine)
