Daily Oilseed Sunflower Prices 

Among the most significant sectors of agriculture is sunflower cultivation. Demand for sunflowers directly depends on farmers’ supply and grain traders’ activity. The price of this crop fluctuates depending on the time between harvesting and the actual release of products to the market. Sunflower is an important resource, as it not only serves as a feedstock for oil and biofuels, but is also used as livestock feed. Given the increase in production and new cultivation technologies, the prospects for this crop look quite promising.

Features of sunflower oil processing and crop yields

Growing sunflowers is always accompanied by certain challenges that can ultimately affect its yield. For example, there is a risk of increased plant acidity, negatively affecting future harvests. The longer the harvesting process is delayed, the lower the yield. On average, sunflower yields range from 1.5 to 3 tons per hectare.

The oil yield varies depending on a number of factors, such as humidity, region, contaminant level, and oil content of the seeds. When it comes to pure sunflower seeds with a moisture content of no more than 8%, about 35-40 liters of oil can be obtained from one hundredweight. 

What is the demand?

The popularity of sunflower oil is growing every year, driven both by increased consumer awareness of healthy eating and the numerous benefits it offers. This oil is a source of important vitamins such as A and E and also contains healthy linoleic and monounsaturated fats that help to normalize cholesterol levels in the body.

High-oleic sunflower deserves special attention because it has a high content of oleic acid. This is leading food manufacturers to switch to the use of high-oleic oils as a healthier alternative to trans-fat products that hurt health. Not only does sunflower oil have a light color and neutral flavor, but it is also suitable for a variety of cooking processes. It can withstand high cooking temperatures, making it a versatile choice for frying, baking, and salad dressing. All this stimulates an increase in demand for this valuable product in the food industry and among home cooks.

What are the costs of this crop in Ukraine?

Farmers should take the advice of analyzing sunflower prices through the Ukragroconsult website. Looking at their table, we can see that there is a certain stability in the price. For example, on December 20, 2024, the price of sunflower seeds was 485 USD per ton, while in the previous days, the price ranged from 495 to 505 USD per ton.

During the week, the price of sunflower seeds did not fluctuate significantly, indicating a certain stability in the market. For example, on December 19, the price was $495, and from December 16 to 18, it fluctuated in the range of $495-505. It is important to keep in mind that prices for sunflower seeds and other agricultural commodities can be influenced by a number of factors, including weather conditions, global market trends, and the domestic economic situation.

Such price stability, especially against the backdrop of global economic challenges, may indicate continued demand for sunflower as an important raw material in the agricultural sector. Producers and traders should closely monitor these trends and plan their strategies based on market forecasts.

What is the price of sunflower oil futures?

Sunflower oil prices in Ukraine are expected to gradually increase, but the rate of increase will be moderate – from 3 to 5% of the current figures. This trend is a positive signal for Ukrainian farmers. This price increase will allow farmers to restore profitability after two years of loss-making operations, which is critical for their activity on the market. Importantly, under the new contract, farmers will be able to lock in these prices and ensure the stability of their cash flows. However, in any case, it is important to continue to monitor the market as it changes depending on circumstances, including supply and demand indicators.