Complete Guide to Importing Sunflower Oil — HS Codes, Quality Specs & Suppliers
Everything a first-time or experienced importer needs to know about sourcing sunflower oil globally — from grades and certifications to payment terms and logistics.
Sunflower oil is one of the most actively traded edible oil commodities globally, with annual trade exceeding 8 million metric tons. Ukraine alone accounts for over 50% of global refined sunflower oil exports. This guide covers everything you need to source sunflower oil efficiently and safely.
HS Codes for Sunflower Oil
The correct HS code determines your import duty rate and customs documentation requirements: - HS 1512.19 — Refined sunflower-seed or safflower oil (most commonly traded grade) - HS 1512.11 — Crude (unrefined) sunflower-seed oil - HS 1516.20 — Hydrogenated/modified sunflower oil
Quality Specifications — What to Specify
For refined sunflower oil (HS 1512.19), always specify: - Free Fatty Acid (FFA): ≤ 0.1% (Grade 1) or ≤ 0.3% (Grade 2) - Peroxide Value: ≤ 1.0 meq/kg - Moisture & Volatile Matter: ≤ 0.1% - Color (Lovibond 5¼" cell): ≤ 1.5R / 15Y - Iodine Value: 118–141 g/100g
Always request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and ideally an SGS or Bureau Veritas inspection certificate with every shipment.
Packaging Options
•ISO Tank (22–24 MT): Best for large volumes, lowest cost per MT - Flexitank (22–24 MT): Good alternative to ISO tank, single-use - IBC/Tote (1,000L): For medium volumes, easy unloading - Steel Drums (200L): For retail or food service distribution - PET Bottles (1L, 2L, 5L): Ready for retail shelf
Top Supplying Countries
Ukraine (51%), Russia (14%), Argentina (9%), Turkey (5%), Hungary (3%). Always verify current supply availability given geopolitical factors affecting origin countries.
Payment Terms
For new suppliers, always use Letter of Credit (L/C) at sight. For established relationships, 30–90 day T/T is common. EximNext's Escrow service is available for added security on any transaction size.