Kazakhstan Increases Sunflower Oil Exports and Strengthens Its Influence in the Global Market
Kazakhstan is experiencing significant growth in sunflower oil exports, leading to a reorientation of this product primarily towards foreign markets. According to data from the National Statistics Bureau and the analytical agency Energyprom.kz, 523.4 thousand tons of oil were exported from the country in the first ten months of 2025, while domestic consumption amounted to 214.8 thousand tons. Industry experts emphasize that some imported products may be resold to other countries.
This is reported by AgroReview
Export Dynamics: China and Uzbekistan at the Top of the List
Significant export growth began in 2022 when Kazakhstani producers intensified cooperation with China. In 2023, export volumes increased by 58.9%, in 2024 by another 30.6%, and by the end of 2025, exports rose by 44%. This has allowed Kazakhstan to solidify its positions in the international market and enhance its recognition on the global stage.
The main importers of Kazakhstani sunflower oil remain Uzbekistan and China. The value of shipments to Uzbekistan increased by 74.2% over the past year, reaching $266.6 million, while exports to China brought the country $139.5 million, which is 28.8% more than in the previous period. At the same time, exports to distant countries have decreased, indicating a strategic focus on neighboring countries.
Domestic Market: Decline in Sales and the Role of Imports
Despite successes in the foreign market, there is a decline in sunflower oil sales domestically. In 2023, domestic sales fell by 36.6%. The situation did not change in 2024, and in 2025, sales volumes decreased by another 5.9%. The growth of imports partially compensates for this deficit: in the first ten months of 2025, 116.1 thousand tons of sunflower oil were imported into the country, which is 39.2% more than the previous year.
“Analysts emphasize that record prices for oil in 2025 were influenced by international trends. From June to December 2025, the price of a ton of sunflower oil increased by 15.2%, reaching $1,400, while domestic prices rose by 31.7% in July. This demonstrates the close connection between the Kazakh market and global trends and strengthens the country’s role as an active participant in the global sunflower oil trade.”
Thus, Kazakhstan is gradually transforming into one of the key players in the global sunflower oil market, forming new trade connections and adapting to global price trends.