Prices of Ukrainian Sunflower Oil Reach Five-Month High Due to Drought
The cost of Ukrainian sunflower oil has risen to its highest level in the past five months, while prices for European products have reached a three-year peak. Experts attribute this increase primarily to forecasts of low yields and limited sunflower production following an extended period of heat and drought, which have negatively impacted crop development across the continent.
This is reported by AgroReview
Low Yields Due to Climatic Conditions
In Ukraine, analysts estimate that sunflower yields will be below the average level of the past five years. This is largely influenced by drought in the southern part of the country, where the main areas for this crop are located. Similar problems are observed in Europe. In particular, France, the largest sunflower producer in the EU, expects a 15% decline in production compared to the average over the past five years.
According to the analytical company Strategie Grains, this year’s sunflower harvest in Europe could be the worst in the last decade, totaling only 8.3 million tons.
“At best, it will be a poor harvest, and at worst — catastrophic,” said Vincent Braak, an analyst at the company.
Market Situation and Prospects
Sunflower oil prices at French ports have remained at their highest levels since November 2022, while Ukrainian oil is being sold at prices close to record highs over the past five months. This increase is linked to growing concerns about production in the 2025–26 seasons, as Ukraine and the EU together account for about 40% of global sunflower production.
At the same time, analysts note that some improvement in the situation is possible after the harvest is completed and supply increases in the market. In Ukraine, the pace of harvesting remains low; however, as work progresses north and west across the country, yields are showing a trend toward growth. Overall sunflower production is expected to exceed last year’s figures by more than 8% due to the expansion of planted areas.
In Europe, the harvest is in full swing: despite initial yields and oil content remaining low, the situation may improve as the harvesting campaign progresses.