Argentina’s sunseed production could reach a record 7 mln tons in MY 2025/26

Argentina’s sunflower seed production could reach a record 7 mln tons in the MY 2025/26, up 50 thsd tons from the previous estimate. According to the USDA, the increase was driven by an expansion in planted area and a record average yield, estimated at 2.3 t/ha.

Sunflower seed acreage expanded particularly in the country’s northern production regions, including the provinces of Chaco and Formosa. Attractive sunflower seed prices over the past three years have also encouraged both existing growers and new producers to add the crop to their rotations.

Sunflower seed crush in 2025/26 is forecast at 5.4 mln tons, up 100 thsd tons from the previous estimate. More than 75% of the crop is expected to be processed domestically and exported as higher-value products.

At the same time, sunflower seed exports could also reach a record high. The USDA raised its export forecast to 1.1 mln tons, well above the previous year’s level. The increase is being driven mainly by demand from Eastern European countries, particularly Bulgaria and Romania, which are facing higher costs and limited availability of Ukrainian sunflower seed.

Although many Argentine crushing plants can process several oilseeds, operators have traditionally been reluctant to switch from soybeans to sunflower seed because of the additional costs and processes involved. However, this trend is beginning to change as sunflower seed crush margins remain strong and are expected to stay attractive into the next marketing year.

For MY 2026/27, the USDA maintained its forecast for Argentina’s sunflower seed production at 6.8 mln tons, based on a planted area of 3.3 mln ha and an average yield of 2.06 t/ha. Crush is projected at 5.6 mln tons and exports at 900 thsd tons. Sunflower seed also requires less fertiliser than corn, making it an increasingly attractive alternative amid high and volatile input prices.