Ukraine Sets Seasonal Record for Sunflower Oil Exports in March 2026

This is reported by AgroReview

In March 2026, Ukraine significantly increased its sunflower oil export volumes, reaching a record 427 thousand tons for the current season. Compared to February, this is an 18% increase, although it is 3% lower than in March of last year.

Growth of Supplies to the Middle East and Key Markets

Supplies to Middle Eastern countries saw particularly dynamic growth. Shipments to Jordan increased by 7.7 times, reaching 35 thousand tons, while exports to Turkey rose by 2.4 times, reaching 40 thousand tons, marking the highest figure in the last ten months. Saudi Arabia imported 14 times more than the previous month—15 thousand tons, which is an eight-month high.

At the same time, exports to the United Arab Emirates decreased by 32%, to Qatar by 85%, and there were no shipments to Iraq at all.

Impact of Geopolitics and Changes in Logistics

An important factor in the growth of supplies to Middle Eastern countries was the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, where key ports and transshipment terminals of importers are located. This forced countries in the region to seek alternative logistics routes, including using land routes through neighboring states with access to the Red Sea.

“Overall, in March, sunflower oil exports to Middle Eastern countries (including Turkey) nearly doubled compared to February, totaling 106.6 thousand tons, the highest figure since June 2025.”

Meanwhile, amid the war with Iran, prices for Ukrainian sunflower oil rose from $1250 to $1300 per ton delivered to ports. This stimulated an increase in sunflower purchases and processing volumes.

In April, further seasonal growth in sunflower supplies is expected, and export demand for oil will remain high due to rising prices for oil, palm, and soybean oils.