Source: Oleoscope (Russia)
Recently, the pricing of sunflowers has experienced significant variations, influenced by shifts in global demand. Beginning in March, Ukraine has observed a consistent decline in prices, with estimates of a weekly drop between $7 and $10 per ton. This trend has mainly been driven by falling sunflower oil prices on the global stage, compelling processors to lower their seed procurement costs.
Despite this, demand among Ukrainian processors is relatively robust, leading producers to hold back on selling larger quantities as they await better market conditions. Current sunflower pricing indications in Ukraine are between $535 and $545 per ton DAP (delivered at the plant), whereas in Bulgaria, prices are reported to be between $580 and $590 per ton, according to Agroexpert.md.
Regarding sunflower oil, there was a resurgence in prices at the start of March; however, by the second week, they began to decline by $5 to $10 per ton, reaching $1,145 per ton FOB (freight on board) Ukraine. If soybean oil prices continue to drop, it is likely that sunflower oil prices will also see additional negative adjustments.
On March 13, 2025, OleoScope reported that the price for sunflower oil FOB Black Sea, with a March delivery schedule, was $1,080 per ton, reflecting a decrease of $5 compared to the previous price of $1,085 on March 12, 2025. This figure marks the lowest price for that week.
In Moldova, sunflower seed prices have sharply decreased by 6% this week, settling at $606 per ton. Prices had peaked in February, and farmers have been cautioned that as the spring planting season begins, an increase in supply is expected, which will likely exert pressure on pricing.
An interesting development is the rise in sunflower exports from Moldova to the European Union. Previously, Moldova was the top exporter of rapeseed, but this season, it accounts for 60.5% of the sunflower imports to the EU.
Analysts highlight that the market for oilseeds and related products faces many uncertainties stemming from geopolitical and economic factors. While low global production could bolster prices in the longer term, fluctuations in processor demand and instability in international markets will continue to affect pricing trends.