- Soybean prices in the Black Sea region are down by an average of 30% year-over-year, marking the steepest decline among major oilseeds.
- Corn prices have weakened by 5% to 20% YoY, with the scale of the decline varying by region.
- Sunflower seed prices have also softened, falling by 13% to 18% YoY across the Black Sea market.
- The overall price decline signals a well-supplied, bearish market, pressuring producer margins but supporting crushers and livestock feeders.
- Traders are watching whether lower prices spur export demand or trigger a slowdown in farmer selling.
Black Sea Grain & Oilseed Market Update
As of December 1, 2025, Black Sea grain and oilseed markets are trading significantly below year-ago levels. Data from leading exporters and processors show broad-based price weakness across soybeans, corn, and sunflower seed, underscoring a well-supplied regional balance sheet and soft market sentiment.
Year-over-Year Price Performance
| Commodity | Region / Market | 2025 vs 2024 Price Move |
|---|---|---|
| Soybeans | Black Sea (all regions) | -30% (average) |
| Corn | Black Sea (by region) | -5% to -20% |
| Sunflower Seed | Black Sea (all regions) | -13% to -18% |
The steepest losses are in the soybean market, where prices have fallen by about 30% on average versus the same period last year. Corn has also retreated, but the scale of the decline varies; some origins are down only around 5%, while others have fallen as much as 20%. Sunflower seed prices are lower across the board, registering a 13% to 18% year-over-year drop.
Market Analysis
The sustained downward pressure across grains and oilseeds reflects a broadly bearish backdrop for the Black Sea complex. Ample supplies and competitive export offers are keeping prices on the defensive. For producers, this environment is increasingly challenging, as weaker flat prices compress margins and may delay farmer selling in the hope of a price recovery.
On the demand side, lower feedstock costs are supportive for crushers and livestock operations, reducing input costs and potentially improving processing margins. The sharp correction in soybeans is especially important for the broader oilseed complex, influencing crush decisions, meal and oil pricing, and inter-commodity spreads.
Traders are closely monitoring whether current price levels attract incremental export demand or instead trigger a supply response in the form of lower planted area or reduced farmer marketing. The balance between these forces will shape price direction into early 2026.
Source: Market Data
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