Bulgarian Sunflower Farmers Struggle Despite Record Yields

Bulgaria is experiencing a strong sunflower harvest this year, with record yields in regions like Dobrudzha and Polski Trambesh. Despite these high yields, farmers are struggling with tighter margins due to rising costs for fertilizers, fuel, labor, and services. Sunflower seed purchase prices have remained stable compared to last year, but production costs have surged, leaving farmers in a difficult position. Industry experts suggest prices around €500-550 per ton would be necessary to restore profitability, assuming yields stay high.

Meanwhile, retail sunflower oil prices in Bulgaria have climbed, reaching €1.76 per liter, up €0.10 from the previous year. This price increase reflects broader market pressures, but it has not translated into better returns for farmers. Producers are also criticizing the structure of the trade, noting that part of Bulgaria’s sunflower seed crop is exported, only for domestic processors to later import raw materials from other countries.

This issue came to light earlier this year when Bulgarian sunflower seed was exported while Argentine supplies were imported in roughly equal volumes. The situation has reignited debates about the efficiency of domestic crushing capacity and the logic behind existing trade flows. Industry representatives are calling for a reevaluation to ensure better utilization of local resources and more sustainable practices.