Sunflower Oil Prices Dip in Ukrainian Ports Amidst Global Market Pressures

September 13, 2025

Sunflower oil prices at Ukrainian export ports have fallen, reflecting a broader downturn in the global vegetable oil market. According to recent data, demand prices for sunflower oil have dropped to $1,200 per ton on CPT-port terms, a decline of $15 per ton from a few days prior.

The downward pressure is a result of a confluence of factors, including geopolitical tensions and increasing global stocks of competing oils.

Key Factors Behind the Price Drop

• US-China Trade Conflict and Soybean Oil: The primary driver for the decline is a similar trend in the soybean oil market. The ongoing trade conflict between the United States and China has led to a significant decrease in soybean prices.¹ As a result of retaliatory tariffs, China, the world’s largest soybean importer, has shifted its purchases from the U.S. to South American suppliers.² This shift has created an oversupply of U.S. soybeans and subsequently lowered the price of soybean oil, a key competitor to sunflower oil.
• Increased Palm Oil Stocks: Further adding pressure to the market is the rise in palm oil stocks in Malaysia.³ Recent data from the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) shows a consistent increase in palm oil inventories, with production outpacing exports.⁴ This elevated supply in a major producing region makes palm oil more competitive in the market, putting downward pressure on the prices of other edible oils, including sunflower oil.

Looking Ahead

While the short-term outlook suggests continued pressure on sunflower oil prices, the market remains dynamic. The ongoing harvest season in Ukraine and other Black Sea regions will be a critical factor to watch, as will any developments in the US-China trade negotiations. Traders will also be monitoring demand from major importing nations, as a change in buying patterns could quickly shift market sentiment.