The European Commission projects a significant rise in sunflower seed shipments to the EU-27 for the 2025/26 marketing season, driven by improved yields despite a 4% reduction in planted area. The forecast estimates a total harvest of nearly 9.7 million tonnes in 2025, a 17% increase from the previous year, when low yields constrained production.

Romania is expected to lead EU production with 2.2 million tonnes, a 50% increase from 2024. Bulgaria follows with 1.9 million tonnes, up 16%, while France anticipates a 22% rise, reaching 1.8 million tonnes. Hungary and Spain are projected to see slight declines of 1%, with harvests of 1.8 million tonnes and 862,000 tonnes, respectively. Italy’s harvest is expected to grow by 1% to 288,000 tonnes, and Greece is forecasted to see a substantial 38% increase, reaching 215,000 tonnes. Germany, a smaller contributor, is estimated to produce 128,000 tonnes.

The German Cereal and Oilseed Processors Association (UFOP) attributes the increased sunflower seed supply to a 21% rise in average yield, reaching approximately 21 centners per hectare. This compensates for a 4% reduction in sown area, now at 4.6 million hectares across the EU-27.

The 2024 season saw reduced harvests in the Balkans due to prolonged drought and heat, with sunflower yields falling 32.5% below the five-year average. The improved yield expectations for 2025 reflect better growing conditions and agricultural advancements, supporting higher production across key EU countries.