Global Sunflower Harvest 2024/25 Falls to a Four-Year Low – IGC Forecast

The International Grains Council (IGC) has revised its forecast for the global sunflower seed harvest for the 2024/25 marketing year downward. Total production is expected to reach 50.1 million tons, which is 100,000 tons lower than the previous estimate. Compared to the 2023/24 season, this decline represents 12.4% and is the lowest figure in the last four years.

This is reported by AgroReview

Significant Production Cuts in Leading Countries

The main sunflower-producing countries remain Russia, Ukraine, and the European Union. All of them are facing a noticeable decrease in yields this year compared to last year. According to updated IGC data, Ukraine’s sunflower seed harvest is expected to be at 13 million tons, indicating a reduction of 21.2% compared to 2023. In the United States, the forecast has also worsened: this year’s harvest is estimated at 500,000 tons, which is half of the 1 million tons harvested last year.

Climate Challenges in Argentina and Risks for the Global Market

In Argentina, where the harvest is ongoing, extreme heat and prolonged drought have negatively impacted yields in the main sunflower-growing regions. The IGC was forced to lower its forecast for this country by 100,000 tons, but according to Agrarmarkt Informations-Gesellschaft, as of mid-February, about 90% of Argentine crops remained in good or excellent condition. The harvest for 2025 is expected to be 4 million tons, which is 2.6% higher compared to the previous year.

The reduction in sunflower seed production may affect global supplies of oil and other products. Experts note that weather conditions remain a key factor complicating forecasts.

The decrease in yields in leading producing countries once again highlights the agricultural sector’s vulnerability to climate change, significantly complicating long-term planning and ensuring stable supplies in the global market.