Kazakhstan increases sunflower husk exports amid strong demand from Europe

Kazakhstan has significantly increased exports of sunflower husk pellets, which are used as biofuel at European power plants. In January–September 2026, the country shipped 63.2 thsd tons of pellets to international markets, 3.56 times the volume recorded in the same period last year. According to the National Association of Oilseed Processors of Kazakhstan, export revenue increased 6.15 times to $3.4 mln. For comparison, full-year exports in 2025 totaled 33.4 thsd tons worth $1.04 mln.

Poland remains the main buyer of Kazakh sunflower husk pellets, accounting for approximately 98% of total exports of this product in 2025. Polish combined heat and power plants use sunflower husk pellets as an alternative fuel for generating heat and electricity. A single large power plant may require up to 30 thsd tons of pellets per month, highlighting the significant potential of the European market for Kazakh producers.

Sunflower husks are generated during seed processing at edible oil extraction plants and account for approximately 14–18% of the raw material’s weight, depending on its quality. Processing plants use some of the husks in their own boilers to produce process steam, while the surplus is converted into fuel pellets. This approach allows companies to reduce energy costs and generate additional revenue from by-products. Pelletizing also makes biofuel easier to store and transport over long distances.

Up to ten companies currently produce sunflower husk pellets in Kazakhstan, with combined output reaching 10 thsd tons per month. Almost all of this production is exported. Meanwhile, some edible oil extraction plants are beginning to use sunflower husks not only for heat generation but also to produce electricity for their own needs, reducing dependence on external energy sources.

According to the industry association, Kazakhstan could increase annual exports of sunflower husk pellets to 250 thsd tons in the medium term, nearly 7.5 times the volume exported in 2025.

Tags: Kazakhstan, EU, sunseed