Top Sunflower Seed Producing Countries

Sunflower seed farming originated in North America, where indigenous peoples first domesticated the sunflower (Helianthus annuus) over 4,000 years ago for its edible seeds and oil. Spanish explorers brought the plant to Europe in the 16th century, where it gained popularity, especially in Russia, which became a leading producer by the 19th century due to the Orthodox Church's encouragement of sunflower oil as a Lenten food. Today, the top sunflower seed-producing countries are Russia and Ukraine, together accounting for more than half of global production, followed by Argentina, Turkey, and the European Union. The crop’s adaptability to various climates and its valuable oil content have made it a staple in both food and industrial markets worldwide.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat