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Turkey's sunflower oil exports saw a significant increase during the first half of 2026, even as the Black Sea region and the Middle East continued to grapple with instability. Data released by the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) indicates that the country shipped 402.9 thousand tons of sunflower oil between January and June, marking an 8% rise compared to the same period in the previous year. The value of these exports grew at an even faster pace, climbing 20.1% to reach $663.9 million.
The Southeastern Anatolia region played a pivotal role in this growth, contributing the largest share to the export figures. The region's sunflower oil exports amounted to $302.6 million, representing a substantial 23.1% year-on-year increase. These strong numbers underscore Southeastern Anatolia's critical importance within Turkey's broader vegetable oil production and export landscape.
Djibouti remained the primary market for Turkish sunflower oil, with exports to the East African nation totaling $219.7 million, an impressive 26.6% jump from the year prior. Sudan followed as the second-largest destination, receiving $75.9 million worth of Turkish sunflower oil, a robust 35.6% increase. Libya secured the third spot, with exports reaching $55.8 million, up 26%.
Nihat Uysallı, Chairman of the Cereals, Pulses, Oilseeds and Processed Products Committee of the Turkish Exporters Assembly, acknowledged the ongoing challenges. He stated that 'raw material supplies continue to face pressure due to the conflict in the Black Sea region, a major global hub for sunflower production.' Uysallı also noted that 'tensions in the Middle East have resulted in delays or slowdowns for some export orders.'
Despite these operational hurdles, Uysallı highlighted the enduring strength of global demand for essential food products, including sunflower oil. He affirmed that 'Turkish exporters have consistently adapted their logistics and production strategies,' enabling them to 'maintain stable shipments, particularly to key markets across the Middle East and Africa.'
Source: UkrAgroConsult