Introduction – Italy’s Refined Sunflower Oil Market in Statistical Focus
Italy has long been a culinary powerhouse, known worldwide for its passion for quality oils, especially olive oil. But in recent years, refined sunflower oil has been making waves in the Italian food industry, both domestically and on the global export stage. In 2024, Italy produced about 650,000 tons of refined sunflower or safflower oil, playing a significant role within the European Union’s total of 5.6 million tons.
With refined sunflower oil becoming a staple in food processing, cooking, and even cosmetics, businesses eyeing Italian suppliers need more than just a gut feeling—they need hard data. A data-driven approach ensures you’re aligning with suppliers that are consistent, verified, and recognized players in international trade.
That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in. Freshdi helps buyers make smart sourcing choices by offering real-time RFQ trends, supplier performance analytics, and buyer reviews. Let’s take a closer look at what’s fueling Italy’s refined sunflower oil market and who the top players are in Q3 2025.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Production and Consumption: A Balanced Equation
Italy’s refined sunflower oil production reached 650,000 tons in 2024, contributing significantly to the EU’s total output. Meanwhile, domestic consumption remains stable, projected to hit around 260,000 metric tons by 2026. This balance between production and consumption gives Italy a strong footing to export surplus oil to international markets.
Export Performance: Italy’s Global Reach
In 2023, Italy exported approximately $95.7 million worth of refined sunflower or safflower oil. The top destinations for these exports were:
- Tanzania: 18.4% share ($17.6 million)
- Germany: 9.79% share ($9.34 million)
- France: 8.34% share ($7.96 million)
- Austria: 8.18% share ($7.8 million)
- Canada: 6.31% share ($6.03 million)
These numbers show that Italy is not just a local player—it’s a significant exporter with a diverse customer base.
Demand Insights via Freshdi RFQs
Market demand is also reflected in RFQ (Request for Quotation) data on platforms like Freshdi, which shows continued interest in Italian suppliers from both European and African buyers. The platform tracks buyer activity patterns, helping you identify which suppliers are receiving the most global attention.
Top 5 Verified Refined Sunflower Oil Suppliers in Italy – Top Tier Based on Export Data
We’ve narrowed down the top 5 Italian suppliers making waves in Q3 2025. These companies were selected based on export volumes, certifications, international presence, and performance reviews on Freshdi.
1. PARODI FRATELLI A. & A. S.P.A.
This long-established company is known for its robust quality control, environmental responsibility, and strong export volume. They specialize in refined oils for food and industrial applications and are one of the most searched suppliers on Freshdi.
2. OLEIFICIO F.LLI BARBI S.R.L.
This family-owned business emphasizes traditional production methods with modern efficiency. Their refined sunflower oil is popular among European buyers for its consistency and competitive pricing.
3. GISA SRL
GISA SRL is a high-volume exporter with strong ties to retailers and food manufacturers across Europe and Africa. Their certifications and transparent supply chain practices make them a go-to for buyers seeking reliability.
4. OLEIFICIO DI PETILIA S.A.S. DI SAPORITO F.SCO & FIGLI
This southern Italian company stands out for its vertically integrated operations, giving them greater control over quality and pricing. Their refined oils are well-reviewed on Freshdi for purity and packaging standards.
5. S.I.P.O. – SOCIETA’ INDUSTRIA PRODOTTI OLEARI – S.R.L.
Known for innovation and sustainability, SIPO is a large-scale producer with a strong presence in North America and the EU. Their export performance places them firmly in the top 5 for Q3 2025.
Dynamic Ranking Note
It’s worth noting that supplier rankings can shift quarter by quarter. Platforms like Freshdi often publish “Suppliers of the Month/Quarter” based on real-time trade activity, RFQ volume, and client feedback. Always refer to the most current data to guide your sourcing decisions.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Import Dependency and International Sourcing
While Italy produces a decent volume of refined sunflower oil, it also relies on imports to meet its full demand. In 2024, Italy imported $415.41 million worth of sunflower oil from Ukraine, making it the fifth-largest importer of Ukrainian sunflower oil.
This dual role—as both producer and importer—means Italy is deeply woven into the global sunflower oil supply chain.
Price Volatility and Seasonal Dynamics
Prices for sunflower oil, like many agricultural commodities, are highly seasonal and influenced by global events:
- Reduced Yields: In 2025, bad weather in Romania and Bulgaria caused EU sunflower seed production to drop by over 1 million metric tons.
- Price Spikes: In Q2 2025, French sunflower oil prices hit $1,453 per metric ton due to low availability.
For buyers, understanding these seasonal price swings is crucial. For instance, purchasing during harvest season (typically late summer to early fall) could yield better pricing and availability.
Long-Term Forecasts
The global market for sunflower oil is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% through 2034. Factors driving this growth include:
- Rising demand for healthier oils in processed foods
- Greater use in plant-based products
- Expansion into non-food sectors like cosmetics and biodiesel
At the same time, supply constraints due to climate change or geopolitical issues could keep prices volatile.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
Italy’s refined sunflower oil industry is a dynamic, data-rich sector with significant export strength and global relevance. From a clear production surplus to a diverse export portfolio, Italy remains a strategic hub for refined sunflower oil buyers.
If you’re sourcing from Italy, you need more than just a list of names—you need to:
- Analyze supplier export data
- Monitor seasonal price trends
- Track RFQ activity to spot demand shifts
Platforms like Freshdi simplify this process by offering verified supplier profiles, trade data analytics, and buyer feedback all in one place.
Buyer Checklist: How to Choose the Right Refined Sunflower Oil Supplier
- ✅ Check export volumes and trade history
- ✅ Look for certifications (ISO, HACCP, etc.)
- ✅ Evaluate buyer reviews on platforms like Freshdi
- ✅ Compare product specifications (acid value, taste, packaging)
- ✅ Understand seasonal pricing trends
- ✅ Prioritize suppliers with stable international logistics
Future Outlook for Buyers
As global demand for healthy, plant-based oils grows, refined sunflower oil will continue to be a key commodity. However, geopolitical events and climate patterns will shape pricing and supply availability. Buyers who leverage market intelligence tools and verified platforms like Freshdi will stay ahead of the curve.
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
Freshdi offers more than just supplier listings. It’s a complete market intelligence platform that enables you to:
- Monitor RFQ trends to spot growing demand
- View supplier certifications and export performance
- Get notified of dynamic supplier rankings
- Access trade data insights for smarter negotiations
Make your next sourcing decision not just smart—but strategic.
References
- IndexBox – EU Sunflower Oil Market Overview 2024
- ReportLinker – Italian Vegetable Oil Consumption Forecast
- TrendEconomy – Italy Export Data
- IMARC Group – Italy Vegetable Oil Market Forecast
- Tridge – Sunflower Oil Weekly Update
- IMARC Group – Sunflower Oil Price Trends
FAQs
1. Why is Italy a major player in the refined sunflower oil market?
Italy boasts a strong production base and a stable domestic market, making it both a significant producer and exporter of refined sunflower oil in Europe.
2. How can I find verified suppliers of refined sunflower oil in Italy?
Platforms like Freshdi provide verified supplier profiles, export data, and buyer reviews to help you make informed choices.
3. What factors affect the price of refined sunflower oil globally?
Prices are influenced by crop yields, weather conditions, geopolitical issues, and demand trends in major markets like Europe and Asia.
4. When is the best time to buy refined sunflower oil from Italy?
Late summer to early fall is often ideal, as it aligns with the post-harvest period when supply is high and prices may be more favorable.
5. Can I request samples from suppliers before committing to a large order?
Yes, most verified suppliers on Freshdi offer sample shipments or trial orders to help you test quality before bulk purchasing.
