Middle East & Africa Sunflower Oil Market Outlook, 2028

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) sunflower oil market is characterized by a growing demand for this versatile cooking oil. Sunflower oil has become a popular choice in the region due to its light flavor, high smoke point, and suitability for a variety of cooking methods, including frying and sautéing. In many MEA countries, sunflower oil is a staple ingredient in traditional dishes, and its neutral taste complements a wide range of culinary flavors. One of the driving factors behind the increasing consumption of sunflower oil in the MEA region is its perceived health benefits. Sunflower oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, which aligns with the growing interest in healthier dietary choices among consumers. Moreover, the affordability and wide availability of sunflower oil in the MEA market make it an accessible cooking oil option for a diverse range of households and food service establishments. Local production and processing facilities have also contributed to the availability of sunflower oil at competitive prices. While sunflower oil remains a popular choice, it competes with other edible oils like palm oil, soybean oil, and local oils such as olive oil, depending on the specific preferences and culinary traditions of each country within the MEA region.

According to the research report “Middle East & Africa Sunflower Oil Market Outlook, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, The market is projected to reach near to the market size USD 885 Million by 2028. The sunflower oil market particularly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, exhibit distinct trends and dynamics. In the UAE, the sunflower oil market is characterized by a diverse consumer base comprising locals and a significant expatriate population. Sunflower oil is a popular choice due to its versatility and suitability for various cuisines. Saudi Arabia represents a substantial market for sunflower oil in the Middle East. The consumption of sunflower oil has been on the rise due to changing dietary habits and a shift towards healthier cooking oils. The Saudi government has actively promoted healthier lifestyles, which has led to increased awareness of the benefits of sunflower oil. Local production and processing facilities have also played a role in meeting domestic demand. In South Africa, sunflower oil is a significant player in the edible oil market. The country has a well-established sunflower oil production industry, making it one of the leading producers of sunflower oil in the region. Domestic production, combined with imports, ensures a steady supply to meet consumer demands. Sunflower oil faces competition from other edible oils, including palm oil, soybean oil, and olive oil. While regional preferences and availability vary, sunflower oil's versatility often places it in direct competition with these oils. Sunflower oil is available in a variety of packaging volumes, including bottles, cans, pouches, and bulk containers. This diverse packaging caters to both household consumers and commercial buyers, offering convenience and flexibility.

Based on the Nature of the sunflower oil, the market is segmented into conventional and organic sunflower oils. The conventional sunflower oil market has long held the largest market share in the edible oil industry. Its widespread availability and affordability have made it a staple in households and the food processing industry worldwide. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more environmentally conscious options. This shift has given rise to the growing popularity of organic sunflower oil. Organic sunflower oil is gaining momentum in the market due to several factors. Firstly, consumers are becoming more health-conscious, seeking products that are free from harmful pesticides, chemicals, and genetically modified organisms. Organic sunflower oil is produced without the use of synthetic chemicals, making it a preferred choice for those looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle. The rise in awareness of sustainability and environmental concerns has contributed to the growth of organic sunflower oil. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the impact of conventional agriculture on the environment, such as soil degradation and water pollution. Organic farming practices, which prioritize soil health and biodiversity, align more closely with the values of environmentally conscious consumers. Additionally, the organic sunflower oil market benefits from the expanding market for organic and natural food products. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that are certified organic, and sustainably sourced. This trend has created opportunities for producers of organic sunflower oil to capture a growing share of the market.

According to the End User segment, the market is categorized into households, industrials, and food services. In the Middle East and Africa, sunflower oil has historically been primarily used in households for cooking and culinary purposes due to its versatile nature and health benefits. However, in recent years, the usage of sunflower oil has been expanding beyond the household kitchen, contributing to the growth of the market. One significant area of growth is in the food industry, where sunflower oil is increasingly utilized as an ingredient in various food products. Its neutral flavor profile and high smoke point make it a desirable choice for snack foods, baked goods, and processed foods. Sunflower oil's health-conscious image also appeals to food manufacturers looking to meet consumer demand for healthier options. Moreover, the cosmetics and personal care industry has recognized the benefits of sunflower oil for skin and hair care products. Sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E and other nutrients, making it a natural choice for skincare formulations. Its moisturizing and antioxidant properties have led to its incorporation into a wide range of cosmetics and personal care products, including lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners. Furthermore, the industrial sector has found applications for sunflower oil, such as in the production of biodiesel, lubricants, and industrial coatings. Its renewable and biodegradable properties make it an attractive option in these industries as they seek to reduce their environmental footprint.

The market for sunflower oils is divided into online and offline distribution based on the channels used for distribution. Sunflower oil has historically been sold mostly in traditional brick-and-mortar stores and hypermarkets/supermarkets in Middle East and Africa. These physical retail locations have long been the first choice for customers looking to buy cooking supplies like sunflower oil. These businesses' reputation for ease, reliability, and familiarity has contributed significantly to their success. However, there has been a discernible increase in online channel sales in recent years. Several causes have contributed to this shift. Firstly, the rapid growth of e-commerce platforms in Middle East and Africa has made it increasingly convenient for consumers to shop for groceries, including cooking oils, from the comfort of their homes. The convenience of doorstep delivery and the availability of a wide range of brands and variants have attracted consumers to explore online options. Secondly, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online shopping for essential items, including sunflower oil, as consumers sought contactless and safer shopping alternatives. Moreover, online platforms often offer attractive discounts and promotions, making sunflower oil and other grocery items more affordable for price-conscious consumers.



Considered in this report:
•Geography: Middle East and Africa (MEA)
•Historic year: 2017
•Base year: 2022
•Estimated year: 2023
•Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
•Middle East and Africa (MEA) Sunflower Oil Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
•Various drivers and challenges
•On-going trends and developments
•Top profiled companies
•Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:
•United Arab Emirates
•Saudi Arabia
•South Africa

By Nature:
•Conventional
•Organic

By End User:
•Household
•Industrial
•Food Service

By Distributional Channel:
•Conventional Store
•Hypermarket/Supermarket
•Direct Sales
•Online
•Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Sunflower Oil Market industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.