Cheap Russian sunseed displaces domestic supplies at Kazakhstan’s crushing plants

Kazakhstan’s oilseed crushing plants are actively purchasing cheaper Russian sunflower seed, raising concerns among local farmers amid growing domestic oilseed production. According to Viktor Aslanov, head of the Kazakhstan Union of Field Crop Growers, significant volumes of imported sunflower seed are being delivered to processing facilities by road, while Kazakh farmers face increasing competition and the risk of lower procurement prices.

The use of government support for the processing industry has become a particular concern for domestic producers. Aslanov claims that some crushing plants received state funding in the spring to purchase sunflower seed from local farmers but are instead prioritizing cheaper Russian supplies. The imported seed is subsequently processed into sunflower oil for export. Agricultural representatives argue that this practice contradicts the objectives of government programs designed to support domestic production.

According to the Union of Field Crop Growers, long queues of trucks with Russian license plates have formed near some processing facilities. Aslanov also raised concerns about the origin of certain imported sunflower seed shipments and possible irregularities in documentation. However, these allegations require investigation by the relevant authorities, as there has been no official confirmation of misuse of public funds or document falsification.

The situation is becoming increasingly sensitive as Kazakhstan expands its oilseed production. The country expects a record sunflower seed harvest in 2026, while the area planted with oilseed crops continues to grow. Under these conditions, an influx of cheaper imported raw materials could put additional pressure on domestic prices and make it more difficult for local farmers to sell their crops. At the same time, purchasing cheaper sunflower seed allows crushing plants to reduce sunflower oil production costs and maintain export competitiveness.

The Kazakhstan Union of Field Crop Growers is calling on the government to strengthen oversight of public funding and review support mechanisms for the oilseed processing industry. Farmer representatives emphasize that state financing should primarily stimulate demand for domestically produced raw materials rather than provide additional advantages to imported supplies.

Tags: sunseed, Russia, Kazakhstan, prices