Kazakhstan's Oilseed Export Revenue Quadruples to $1 Billion in Four Years

Kazakhstan's oilseed-processing industry has experienced a dramatic fourfold increase in export revenue over the past four years, surging to $963 million, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin. Speaking at the Fifth International Fats and Oils Conference in Astana, Zhumangarin highlighted the sector's transformation from a minor agricultural segment into a vital economic pillar.

"Over just four years, export revenue from Kazakhstan’s oilseed products increased fourfold, from $240 million to $963 million," Zhumangarin stated. Production has reached a record 1.6 million tons, with the industry now contributing 27% to the country's total processed agricultural exports. This growth is attributed to government initiatives supporting domestic processing, attracting investment, and promoting value-added production.

The industry's expansion has spurred broader agricultural development, including increased cultivation of oilseed crops, higher farm incomes, and job creation. Kazakhstan has solidified its position in global vegetable oil markets, ranking sixth worldwide in sunflower oil exports and serving as the second-largest supplier to China. It is also a leading exporter of sunflower meal to the European Union and meets most of Central Asia's demand for oilseed products.

Looking ahead, Kazakhstan aims to become a global leader not just in exporting but also in producing and processing oilseed products. A roadmap developed through 2028 targets increasing annual export revenue to over $1.5 billion. Key strategies include expanding acreage for high-margin crops, adopting modern agricultural technologies to improve yields, encouraging deeper processing, and upgrading transport and logistics infrastructure.

Recent logistical advancements have opened new markets. For the first time, vegetable oil was directly loaded onto seagoing vessels at the Port of Aktau in 2026, utilizing the Caspian Sea corridor. Pilot shipments of pelleted sunflower meal to China via the Dostyk-Alashankou border crossing have also commenced, supported by the national railway operator.

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Over just four years, export revenue from Kazakhstan’s oilseed products increased fourfold, from $240 million to $963 million.