Türkiye's agricultural sector reached remarkable heights in 2024, achieving its highest annual export figure of $36.2 billion, representing a 3.3% increase compared to the previous year. This feat was confirmed through data compiled by the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM) and reported by Anadolu Agency.
With agricultural exports contributing significantly to Türkiye's economy, accounting for 16% of total exports, this success showcases the country's resilience and adaptability amid global challenges like climate change and food security concerns.
The most notable gains were observed in the fruit and vegetable products sector, which generated $2.7 billion, along with dried fruits and products, contributing $1.9 billion. Both segments experienced growth rates of 1.2% and 0.8%, respectively, highlighting the growing global demand for these agricultural products, particularly from major markets like the United States and Germany.
Exports to the U.S. reached $429.4 million for fruit and vegetable products alone. Meanwhile, Germany imported $247.3 million worth of dried fruits and products from Türkiye. This demand reflects Türkiye's reputation as a reliable agricultural supplier during times of increasing food safety awareness on the global stage.
Leading the charge is Istanbul, which topped the fruit and vegetable export category with $637 million, followed closely by Izmir, known for its dried fruit products, with $481.6 million. The chair of the Istanbul Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Exporters' Association, Melisa Tokgöz Mutlu, emphasized the nation's strong position. “With our state-of-the-art facilities and ability to produce tailor-made goods to meet customer demands, Türkiye is not just an affordable supplier but also a dependable and sustainable partner in global markets,” she said.
Mutlu elaborated on how Türkiye's agricultural exports are not merely about volume but also about quality and sustainability. She pointed out, “Our high-tech factories and our potential to produce 'tailor-made' products according to customer demand carry Türkiye to an important position in world markets.” This reflects the capacity to process agricultural products locally, extending their shelf life, thereby reducing costs and boosting overall competitiveness.
Plans are underway to increase agricultural exports to $40 billion. To achieve this ambitious target, Mutlu underscored the necessity of adopting climate-friendly agricultural policies and promoting environmentally friendly production methods. This mirrors Türkiye's commitment to sustainable growth and addressing the challenges posed by global climate change.
Besides enhancing production capabilities, Türkiye aims to expand its presence strategically within key markets like the European Union, Middle East, North Africa, and East Asia. The EU is particularly significant due to its size and logistical benefits for exporters, and Türkiye's efforts to amplify trade relations therein include the establishment of higher quality standards for agricultural products.
“Efforts to expand the Customs Union have facilitated the export of heat-treated poultry products to EU countries,” Mutlu explained. This adaptability allows Türkiye to meet the growing demand for agricultural products and secure its market position, leveraging initiatives like the EU's Green Deal to align with sustainability goals.
Mutlu also noted increasing demand for Turkish agricultural products from Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, along with North African nations like Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt. According to her, Türkiye is also eyeing opportunities within East Asia, particularly China and Japan.
Tim and exporters’ associations are actively working together to bolster the visibility of Turkish agricultural products across these regions. Such strategic trade agreements and promotional efforts are fundamental to capturing and sustaining market interest.
Overall, Türkiye's agricultural sector not only achieved historic export records at $36.2 billion but also demonstrated resilience and potential for sustainable growth, positioning itself as both a reliable and innovative partner on the global stage. With this steady momentum, the nation now eyes even greater accomplishments on the horizon.