Kazakhstan plans to become a key global linseed exporter

Over the first 11 months of the 2024/25 agricultural season, Kazakhstan boosted linseed exports to record levels — 1.8 times higher compared to the same period last year. This surge is directly linked to changing market conditions, particularly the EU’s imposition of high tariffs on Russian linseed, which opened new opportunities for Kazakh producers in Europe and Asia.

According to Yevgeny Karabanov, Head of the Analytics Committee of the Kazakhstan Grain Union, total exports from September to July reached 506,300 tons. Around 67% of last year’s harvest was shipped abroad, highlighting the industry’s heavy dependence on external demand.

The largest growth was seen in supplies to the European Union:

• Belgium: 181.6 thousand tons (up 3.1 times)

• Poland: 35.5 thousand tons (up 2.2 times)

• Germany: 11.8 thousand tons (up 2.4 times)

Positive dynamics were also recorded in Asian markets:

• China: 188.3 thousand tons (up 1.7 times)

• Afghanistan: 40.6 thousand tons (+20%)

• Other Asian countries: 44.6 thousand tons (up 1.5 times)

Official data shows that Kazakhstan expanded linseed sowing areas by 54% in 2025, reaching 1.35 million hectares. The harvest is expected to hit 1 million tons this year, allowing the country to maintain its role as a major player in the global market. The export forecast for the current season remains stable at 530 thousand tons.

With the EU restricting imports from Russia, Kazakhstan has a unique chance to strengthen its position in key markets, especially in China, where its linseed will gain a direct competitive advantage over Russian supplies, the Grain Union noted.

However, analysts warn that the high global supply in the new season could put additional pressure on prices. The Chinese market is expected to become the main arena of competition among top producers. Earlier, representatives of the Grain Union said that domestic exporters are counting on further growth of linseed shipments to the EU and China due to the possible introduction of 10% export duties on Russian linseed.

Tags: Kazakhstan, linseed