Reduction in imports of sunflower seeds and corn in Russia in 2023

Last year, Russia reduced imports of sunflower seeds and corn by 38% and 45%, respectively. The share of seeds from unfriendly countries has also decreased, especially in the case of sunflower. The US and Austria have left the Russian market, and EU countries such as Hungary and France have significantly reduced supplies. Instead, Russia increased imports of sunflower seeds and corn from Turkey.

The total demand of the Russian market for sunflower seed material is estimated at 40 thousand tons, including 8 thousand tons of domestic selection. As for corn, the domestic market demand is about 86 thousand tons. However, taking into account the available balances, a shortage of seeds is not expected in the country. Domestic producers of corn seeds have the potential to completely replace imported planting material by 2025.