The Agricultural Sector Breaks Records in January-February Exports

Despite the economic disruptions caused by the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş affecting 11 provinces, the agricultural sector continues to break records in exports. In Türkiye, the agricultural sector has reached an all-time high in January-February exports, with $5.434 billion. Agricultural exports increased by 2.7% compared to the same period in 2022 in the first two months of the year. In addition, agricultural exports accounted for 16.2% of Türkiye's total foreign sales. 

Export Record in 5 out of 10 Sectors Operating in Agricultural

In the first two months of 2023, exports worth $1.820 billion were realized in the group of cereals, legumes, oilseeds, and their products. The sectors that made exports of $634.488 million for fresh fruits and vegetables and $201.220 million for olives and olive oil were also among the record exporters. In addition, ornamental plants and their products realized exports worth $30.146 million, and furniture, paper, and forest products realized exports worth $1.204 billion. All of these sectors achieved the highest January-February exports of all time with their export performances.

In January-February 2023, cereals, legumes, oilseeds, and their products increased by 3% compared to the same period last year, while fresh fruits and vegetables increased by 17.9%. There was a significant increase in olive and olive oil by 140.2%, and ornamental plants and their products by 7.2% compared to the same period last year. Finally, there was a 2.1% increase in furniture, paper, and forest products exports.

Top Importing Countries from Türkiye in Agricultural Sector

When the exports of the record-breaking sectors are examined by country, cereals, legumes, oilseeds, and their products were exported to Iraq for $296.749 million in the first 2 months. Additionally, Iraq imported $129.180 million worth of furniture, paper, and forest products. The fresh fruits and vegetables sector exported $173.401 million worth of products to the Russian Federation. In the olive and olive oil sector, $67.417 million worth of exports were made to Spain among European countries. Finally, the Netherlands imported ornamental plants and products worth $8,182 million.

Top Exporting Cities in Türkiye

When analyzed by cities, Istanbul carried out export of 562 million 714 thousand dollars worth of cereals, pulses, oily seeds, and their products. In addition, a total of 40 million 455 thousand dollars of furniture, paper, and forest products were exported from Istanbul.

Mersin, with a Mediterranean climate, realized an export of 167 million 872 thousand dollars in fresh fruits and vegetables. Izmir, which is the largest producer and exporter of olives and olive oil in Türkiye, exported goods worth 93 million 372 thousand dollars. Lastly, Antalya made an export of 13 million 666 thousand dollars in ornamental plants and products.

Agricultural Exports of 3 Provinces Affected by the Earthquake Increased

The earthquake centered in Kahramanmaras affected the economic activities of 11 provinces; however, an increase in agricultural exports was observed in 3 provinces affected by the earthquake. The foreign sales of companies operating in the agricultural sector in Adana, Adıyaman, and Kahramanmaras increased in the first two months of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. Accordingly, agricultural exports reached 153 million 620 thousand dollars with a 10.4% increase in Adana and 2 million 506 thousand dollars with a 25.5% increase in Adıyaman. Finally, in the earthquake epicenter Kahramanmaras, agricultural exports reached 13 million 716 thousand dollars with a 4.8% increase compared to the same period last year.

Türkiye's Agricultural Exports: A Vital Economic and Trade Contribution

Türkiye's agricultural exports have played a significant role in the country's economy for many years. With fertile land and a variety of climates, Türkiye is home to a wide range of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock. These products are not only important for the country's economy but also for its social and cultural identity.

In recent years, Türkiye’s agricultural exports have experienced impressive growth, contributing significantly to the country's overall export revenue. One of the main reasons for Türkiye's success in agricultural exports is its commitment to producing high-quality products. 

Another significant factor in Turkey's agricultural exports is its ability to adapt to changing market conditions. Turkish producers are always looking for new markets and opportunities, and they have demonstrated a willingness to adapt to the specific needs and requirements of these markets. 

Finally, Turkey's agricultural exports have played an important role in the country's economy and global trade. The country's commitment to producing high-quality products, its strategic location, and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions have all contributed to its success.