Kazakhstan expects oilseed raw material deficit despite record planted area

Kazakhstan is expected to face a tighter oilseed raw material deficit in the 2026/27 season despite a record expansion in planted area. Oilseed acreage increased by 30% in 2026 to 5.32 mln ha, but due to weather conditions the crop is forecast at just 4.15–4.3 mln tons, roughly unchanged from a year earlier.

Sunflower seed production is projected at 2.06–2.16 mln tons. With output showing little growth while processing capacity continues to expand, competition among processors for available raw materials is expected to intensify.

Oilseed processing capacity is increasing particularly rapidly. Refining capacity alone is expected to rise from 481 thsd tons to 732 thsd tons, according to industry estimates.

High-oleic sunflower is also emerging as a separate growth segment. Stable domestic demand for high-oleic sunflower oil has already developed among major food manufacturers.

In raw material terms, guaranteed annual demand for high-oleic sunflower seed is estimated at around 50–55 thsd tons. Against the backdrop of an overall shortage of oilseed raw materials, this segment could remain one of the most promising for Kazakh producers.

Tags: Kazakhstan, oilseeds, sown area, planted area