Share of sunflower oil in Kazakhstan’s oil production reached a record 85.7%

From 2020 to 2024, the production of all vegetable oils in Kazakhstan increased from 464,100 tons to 753,000 tons. Sunflower processing saw the most impressive growth: during this period, sunflower oil production nearly doubled, Xinhua reports, citing data from the Kazakh Statistics Agency.

For the first 11 months of last year (January-November 2025), total vegetable oil production amounted to 807,400 tons (+18.7% compared to the same period in 2024). Sunflower oil production increased by 19.2% to 683,700 tons, accounting for virtually all of the industry’s growth. Sunflower oil’s share of total production reached a record 85.7%.

This increased production directly translated into stronger export potential for the country. Over the four years from 2020 to 2024, these figures doubled—from 220.9 thousand tons to 582.1 thousand tons. For January-November 2025, they reached 690.9 thousand tons (+34.6% compared to 2024).

Sunflower oil exports are showing even higher growth rates. Shipments increased from 127.7 thousand tons in 2020 to 591 thousand tons in the first 11 months of 2025 (an increase of 43% year-on-year). Sunflower oil’s share of total vegetable oil exports consistently exceeds 85%.

These products are actively expanding into neighboring markets. The main importers by purchase volume for January-November 2025 were:

• Uzbekistan – 52.4% of all exports
• China
• Tajikistan

These three countries together account for approximately 92% of all Kazakh exports.

The oil and fat industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan, thanks to increased processing, has propelled the country to 8th place in the global ranking of sunflower oil exporters. The National Association of Oilseed Processors plans to reach 6th place in the global ranking by the end of this year and, in the medium term, become one of the world’s top three suppliers.

Tags: sunflower oil, Kazakhstan