Russian Sunflower Oil Exports to Iraq Surge 72-Fold in First Nine Months of 2026

Russia's sunflower oil exports to Iraq recorded a significant increase during the first nine months of this year, exceeding 14,600 tonnes and reaching a total value of $19 million, representing a 72-fold rise compared with the same period last year.

According to estimates cited by the Russian Agricultural Export Development Center (Agroexport), export volumes increased 72 times year-on-year, while their value grew 69-fold.

Russia's sunflower oil exports to Iraq previously reached a record high in 2022, when shipments totaled 59,000 tonnes, valued at $114 million.

The sharp increase comes as Russian companies seek to expand their presence in Middle Eastern food markets and strengthen their position as key suppliers of essential food commodities. The trend also reflects growing efforts by Arab countries to diversify import sources and secure reliable supplies at competitive prices.