Sunflower Oil Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Sunflower Oil Market – Overview

The Global Sunflower Oil Market is witnessing consistent growth, driven by rising consumer awareness of healthy eating, expanding foodservice industries, and increasing demand for plant-based oils. Sunflower oil, known for its light taste, high smoke point, and health benefits such as being rich in Vitamin E and unsaturated fats, has become a preferred choice for both household and industrial cooking.

The market is further propelled by the growing use of sunflower oil in processed foods, bakery products, and cosmetics. Changing dietary habits, particularly in emerging economies, have strengthened the demand for healthy cooking oils, creating new growth avenues for sunflower oil manufacturers.

Additionally, sustainability efforts, along with cold-pressed and organic variants, are helping brands tap into premium health-conscious segments. With expanding applications in the personal care and biodiesel sectors, the sunflower oil market is expected to sustain long-term growth. This report provides detailed insights into market trends, segmentation, competitive analysis, and growth forecasts.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Sunflower Oil Market Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

This study on the Sunflower Oil Market is built on a strong foundation of validated primary research, secondary industry data, and insights from seasoned market analysts. All market estimates have been cross-checked against historical trade patterns, recent industry developments, and macroeconomic indicators to ensure accuracy. It is assumed that major producers, including Ukraine, Russia, and Argentina, will maintain moderate growth in production capacities despite occasional geopolitical and climatic risks.

For the purpose of this study, sunflower oil refers to edible and industrial oil extracted from the seeds of Helianthus annuus (sunflower). The report categorizes sunflower oil into refined, unrefined, cold-pressed, and organic variants, which are used across culinary, cosmetic, and industrial applications.

Price analysis assumes stable commodity pricing within historically observed volatility margins, barring unforeseen disruptions. Regulatory assumptions take into account existing and proposed food safety, health, and labeling standards as outlined by regional and global authorities such as the FDA, EFSA, and Codex Alimentarius.

All financial data is inflation-adjusted to the base year, and the market size is measured in both metric tons and USD millions for clarity and comparability. This framework ensures accurate forecasting and sound strategic recommendations for stakeholders.

Market Scope

The Sunflower Oil Market Report offers a comprehensive assessment of the global landscape, covering supply chain dynamics, pricing trends, product innovations, and competitive benchmarking. The scope includes both edible and non-edible sunflower oil used in food processing, culinary applications, personal care, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and industrial lubricants.

The report segments the market by type (Refined, Unrefined, Cold-Pressed, Organic), application (Food, Cosmetics, Biofuel, Industrial), end-user (Household, Commercial/Foodservice, Industrial Processors), and distribution channel (Supermarkets, Online, Specialty Stores, Convenience Outlets).

Regional analysis includes key geographies such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, providing macro and microeconomic insights into each market.

The analysis period covers both historical data and future forecasts, supporting strategic planning, competitive positioning, and investment decisions. Emerging health trends, geopolitical trade shifts, and evolving consumer preferences are fully incorporated into the market scope for comprehensive insight.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Global Sunflower Oil Market is positioned for significant growth over the forecast period, fueled by rising health awareness, changing dietary preferences, and the growing demand for plant-based oils across both developed and emerging economies. Sunflower oil, extracted from the seeds of Helianthus annuus, is valued for its light flavor, high smoke point, and nutritional profile, including a rich concentration of Vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids.

Consumer preference is shifting toward healthier alternatives, especially in the edible oils segment, and sunflower oil is increasingly perceived as a heart-friendly choice due to its low saturated fat content. Additionally, the food processing industry widely adopts sunflower oil for frying, baking, and as an ingredient in packaged products, further enhancing its global market appeal.

Beyond the food sector, the versatility of sunflower oil has paved the way for its usage in cosmetics, personal care, and biofuel production. The market is also witnessing strong growth from the organic and cold-pressed sunflower oil segments, driven by health-conscious consumers seeking clean-label products.

Geopolitics, especially in key producing countries like Ukraine and Russia, plays a pivotal role in the global supply chain. Manufacturers are diversifying sourcing strategies and investing in local production to reduce exposure to price volatility and supply disruptions.

The rise of e-commerce has also opened new opportunities for sunflower oil producers, offering direct-to-consumer models and subscription-based sales that improve customer retention and market penetration.

In summary, the sunflower oil market is set to benefit from the convergence of health trends, sustainable sourcing, and innovative applications across industries, creating strong growth potential for both established and emerging players.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The sunflower oil market is highly competitive, featuring global giants and regional players focusing on sustainability, product innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Key Market Players

• Cargill, Inc.
• Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
• Bunge Limited
• Conagra Brands, Inc.
• Rein Oil CC
• Kernel Holding S.A.
• EFKO Group
• Aston JSC
• Wilmar International Limited
• Sunora Foods

Market Share Analysis

The Sunflower Oil Market is characterized by the strong presence of both multinational corporations and regional producers, each leveraging unique strategies to secure and expand their market share. The market landscape is moderately fragmented, with the top players — including Cargill Inc., ADM, Bunge Limited, Wilmar International, and Kernel Holding — collectively holding a considerable portion of the global volume, especially in regions with mature consumption patterns such as Europe and North America.

In contrast, smaller and regional players focus on specialized product offerings such as organic, cold-pressed, non-GMO, and specialty sunflower oil variants, which have carved out lucrative niches in the premium segment.

Europe remains the most dominant consumer and producer, with the Black Sea region (Ukraine, Russia) being a primary supplier to global markets. However, recent geopolitical instability has led to diversification of sourcing strategies, with countries like Argentina and Kazakhstan increasing their share in global exports.

Growing demand from emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, is reshaping trade flows and opening doors for new entrants. Meanwhile, the rise of e-commerce platforms and private label brands has further intensified competition, giving consumers more choices and driving companies to innovate in packaging, pricing, and product quality to retain market share.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The growth of the Sunflower Oil Market is powered by a combination of evolving consumer lifestyles, health awareness, and product versatility across industries. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier alternatives to traditional cooking oils, and sunflower oil stands out due to its high polyunsaturated fat content, zero trans fats, and rich Vitamin E levels. This nutritional profile positions it as a heart-healthy choice, making it popular in both home cooking and the food processing industry.

Another significant driver is the growth of urban populations and fast-paced lifestyles, which fuel the demand for ready-to-eat meals, baked goods, and fried snacks, all of which commonly use sunflower oil due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Key innovations include the production of cold-pressed and organic sunflower oils, which retain maximum nutrients, appealing to health-conscious and eco-aware consumers. Many manufacturers are also shifting to sustainable farming practices and transparent sourcing, which not only enhance brand trust but also meet the increasing demand for ethically produced products.

Additionally, the sunflower oil industry is expanding its footprint in the cosmetic and personal care sector, where the oil is valued for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties. The market is also seeing growth in biodiesel production, especially in Europe, where governments promote biofuels as part of their climate policies.

Strategic collaborations with food manufacturers, restaurant chains, and cosmetic companies are further pushing sunflower oil into new application territories, reinforcing its role as a multi-purpose commodity with sustained long-term demand.

Market Challenges

1. Geopolitical Instability and Supply Risks: The sunflower oil market is highly exposed to geopolitical tensions, particularly because a large percentage of global sunflower seed production and oil exports come from Ukraine and Russia. Armed conflicts, sanctions, and trade restrictions have caused sharp supply chain disruptions, forcing manufacturers and importers to secure alternative suppliers at higher costs.
2. Volatility in Raw Material Prices: Agricultural production of sunflower seeds is sensitive to climate change, rainfall variability, and pest infestations. Poor harvests lead to significant supply shortages, resulting in price volatility that directly impacts both manufacturers’ margins and consumer affordability.
3. Intense Competition from Alternative Edible Oils: The global edible oils market offers strong competition from palm oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and olive oil. Each alternative provides different price points and nutritional profiles, often challenging sunflower oil’s positioning, especially in cost-sensitive markets.
4. Regulatory Compliance and Labeling Standards: Countries enforce varying regulations on trans fat limits, GMO labeling, and oil refinement processes. Meeting these evolving standards requires frequent reformulation and packaging updates, adding operational complexity for exporters.
5. Environmental and Sustainability Concerns: Industrial sunflower cultivation can result in soil depletion, water overuse, and biodiversity loss. As sustainability becomes a buyer priority, producers must invest in eco-friendly practices, which can increase production costs.
6. Supply Chain and Logistic Disruptions: Pandemic-era container shortages, fuel cost spikes, and unstable shipping schedules have revealed structural weaknesses in global edible oil logistics, often causing shipment delays and price surges.

Market Opportunities

1. Rising Demand for Health-Focused Edible Oils: Growing awareness of the cardiovascular benefits of unsaturated fats and Vitamin E is driving demand for sunflower oil, especially in urban health-conscious populations.
2. Expansion of Cold-Pressed and Organic Product Lines: The premiumization of edible oils, with an emphasis on cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic variants, presents opportunities for producers to cater to consumers willing to pay more for natural and nutrient-rich products.
3. E-commerce Growth and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Sales: Online platforms are expanding the reach of both established and new sunflower oil brands, enabling producers to bypass intermediaries, build brand loyalty, and optimize margins through subscription services and targeted marketing.
4. Growth in Emerging Economies: Rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America are creating long-term opportunities for sunflower oil consumption both in households and the foodservice sector.
5. Diversification into Non-Food Applications: Sunflower oil’s versatile composition makes it suitable for industries like cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and biodiesel production — enabling producers to diversify beyond food markets.
6. Sustainability-Driven Brand Positioning: Implementing and marketing sustainable farming, eco-friendly packaging, and carbon-neutral supply chains can improve competitiveness and meet the rising ethical expectations of global consumers and retailers.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

1. Kernel Holding S.A.: In response to the growing demand for sunflower oil in Europe and Asia, Kernel Holding S.A. invested $130 million in 2023 to expand its sunflower oil extraction capacity in Ukraine. The company plans to increase production and efficiency, boosting its global market share. This strategic move aims to support the brand’s growth in key markets while maintaining a focus on sustainability and operational efficiency.
2. Cargill’s New Low-Saturated Fat Sunflower Oil: To meet consumer demand for healthier oils, Cargill launched a new range of sunflower oils with lower saturated fat content in 2023. This innovation specifically targets food manufacturers looking to offer healthier alternatives to conventional cooking oils. The product’s development reflects the growing consumer awareness surrounding cholesterol and heart health, reinforcing Cargill’s position as a market leader in plant-based oils.
3. Bunge Limited’s Collaboration with Biotech Firms: In 2024, Bunge Limited partnered with biotechnology companies to create climate-resilient sunflower seed hybrids. This initiative aims to improve sunflower yield stability under adverse environmental conditions. By investing in more sustainable farming practices and genetically engineered crops, Bunge is addressing the risk of fluctuating sunflower seed production due to climate change, which is vital for ensuring a steady supply of sunflower oil.
4. Wilmar International’s Expansion in Southeast Asia: Wilmar International, a major player in the global edible oil market, expanded its sunflower oil distribution network across Southeast Asia in late 2023. This expansion is part of the company’s broader strategy to cater to the growing middle-class population and the rising demand for edible oils in the region. Wilmar’s efforts focus on retail partnerships and enhancing brand visibility, positioning itself as a leader in both foodservice and consumer markets.
5. Mergers and Acquisitions in Eastern Europe: In 2023, several regional sunflower oil producers in Eastern Europe merged to stabilize supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical challenges. This consolidation allowed companies to share resources, reduce production costs, and increase their ability to negotiate better prices with suppliers. This trend of mergers and acquisitions is expected to continue as companies in the sector seek ways to mitigate risks from unstable supply chains and market fluctuations.
6. ADM’s Blockchain Integration for Traceability: In 2024, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) made a significant technological leap by integrating blockchain into its sunflower oil supply chain. The move was aimed at improving product transparency, especially for consumers in the EU and North America, who are increasingly demanding traceable, ethically sourced food products. The integration of blockchain not only enhances product security but also strengthens ADM’s reputation as a leader in sustainable sourcing practices.
7. Sustainability Initiatives by Major Players: The sustainability movement has gained significant traction, with large sunflower oil producers like Cargill, ADM, and Wilmar International focusing on sustainable farming practices, reduced carbon emissions, and eco-friendly packaging. These efforts align with consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and are helping brands to differentiate themselves in the market. In 2023, several companies reported reducing their carbon footprint and investing in eco-friendly packaging as part of their broader sustainability initiatives.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

1. For Manufacturers: The sunflower oil market presents numerous opportunities for manufacturers to innovate, especially in the premium segment. By expanding into organic, cold-pressed, and high-quality variants, manufacturers can capitalize on growing health-conscious consumer trends. Furthermore, investing in sustainable sourcing and climate-resilient crops can help companies address the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring long-term production stability. These innovations provide manufacturers with the ability to differentiate their products and improve brand loyalty.
2. For Distributors & Retailers: Distributors and retailers can benefit from the growing demand for sunflower oil, especially as consumers become more health-conscious. By focusing on premium product lines, such as organic or non-GMO sunflower oil, retailers can cater to a specific segment that is willing to pay a higher price for healthier options. Moreover, expanding availability through e-commerce platforms offers new sales channels that enhance reach and customer engagement, especially in regions with increasing online grocery shopping.
3. For Investors: The global demand for sunflower oil continues to rise, driven by health trends and sustainable agriculture practices, making it a high-growth investment opportunity. Investors can benefit from long-term growth in emerging markets where sunflower oil is gaining popularity as a healthy cooking alternative. Additionally, the biofuel industry is expected to grow, with sunflower oil being a key feedstock for renewable fuels. Investing in sustainable and ethical production practices also ensures alignment with the increasing preference for environmentally responsible companies.
4. For Consumers: Consumers benefit from sunflower oil’s health benefits, such as its high content of unsaturated fats and Vitamin E, which help in improving heart health and overall wellness. The increasing availability of premium, organic, and cold-pressed sunflower oils gives consumers more options to meet their dietary preferences and health goals. The market is also evolving with more traceability and sustainability initiatives, ensuring consumers have access to products that meet ethical and environmental standards.
5. For Policymakers & Regulators: Policymakers and regulators can benefit from the growing sustainability focus in the sunflower oil industry. By encouraging eco-friendly practices, traceability technologies, and ethical sourcing, governments can support the transition to more sustainable agriculture. Additionally, by fostering collaborations between industry players and regulatory bodies, they can help ensure a transparent, fair, and innovative market that prioritizes the health and well-being of consumers.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• INTRODUCTION

  • Market Overview
  • Years Considered for Study
  • Market Segmentation
  • Study Assumptions and Definitions
  • Market Scope

• RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

• MARKET OUTLOOK

  • Executive Summary
  • Market Snapshot
• Market Segments 
  • By Type:
    • Refined, Unrefined, Cold-Pressed
  • By Region:
    • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

• Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
• Market Share Analysis
• Company Profiles
  • Cargill, Inc.
  • Bunge Limited
  • Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)
  • Wilmar International
  • Kernel Holding S.A.
  • Olenex
  • Conagra Brands, Inc.
  • Fuji Oil Holdings Inc.
  • Royal Ingredients Group
  • Sunflower Oil Company Ltd.

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US