Sunflower crop performance in Romania : a comparative analysis at the European level

This study aims to present and analyze the sunflower culture, aiming to highlight Romania's position at European level. The analyzed statistical data have as source the national database INSSE and the European database Eurostat, for the period 2019-2023. In order to create a larger image of the sunflower crop, the following indicators were analyzed: surfaces, yields, average yields, import and export of sunflower at national and European level. Sunflower culture plays an important role globally, being cultivated in most states, with areas varying depending on the region and the climate. The main products (seeds), as well as secondary products (turts, stems, leaves) are of great importance, being valued in various fields and industries. In 2023, Romania ranked first among European countries in terms of cultivated area and sunflower production. The performances recorded in recent years have strengthened Romania's position as a leader in terms of sunflower culture, emphasizing how it manages to exploit and effectively capitalize on this agricultural resource.