Record oilseed crop pressures sunflower seed prices in Kazakhstan

Sunflower seed prices in Kazakhstan are under strong pressure amid record oilseed supplies. The country is expected to harvest more than 5 mln tons of oilseeds this season, while domestic sunflower seed prices have already fallen to KZT 162 thsd/t including VAT.

Analysts at the Grain and Oilseed Crops Kazakhstan research bureau say prices could decline further to KZT 150 thsd/t if market conditions worsen. The potential upside is estimated at KZT 200 thsd/t, but producers without their own storage capacity are being advised not to delay sales.

Additional pressure comes from cheaper imports from Russia. Market participants say Russian sunflower seed is being offered to Kazakh crushing plants at around KZT 120 thsd/t, while the production cost of local seed, including harvesting and logistics, is approaching KZT 160 thsd/t.

Kazakhstan’s sunflower seed export potential is also constrained by a 20% export duty, equivalent to more than KZT 30 thsd/t. The authorities do not currently plan to revise the measure, arguing that it helps secure raw material for domestic crushers and supports sunflower oil exports.

Market pressure could persist as sunflower planted area in Kazakhstan continues to expand under the country’s crop diversification programme. Amid abundant supply, cheaper imports and export restrictions, analysts expect a larger share of margins in the 2026/27 season to shift from seed producers to processors and exporters of finished products.

Tags: prices, sunseed, Kazakhstan