Peach and Nectarine Exports Soar Towards $250 Million
Peach and Nectarine Exports Rise by 33%, Reaching $125 Million
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Peach and Nectarine Exports Soar Towards $250 Million
Peach and Nectarine Exports Rise by 33%, Reaching $125 Million
YEREL GÜNDEM / İZMİR
Turkey ranks third globally in peach and nectarine production and second in exports.
The year 2024 marks a successful season for peaches and nectarines, fruits often heralding summer and symbolizing longevity and immortality.
From January 1 to June 12, 2024, Turkey increased its peach exports from $94 million in the same period in 2023 to $125 million, marking a 33% rise.
In 2019, Turkey achieved $90 million in peach and nectarine exports, and by the end of 2023, this figure had surged to $203.5 million through consistent annual growth.
Hayrettin Uçak, Vice Chairman of the Aegean Exporters' Association and President of the Aegean Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Exporters' Association, highlighted that the quantity of peach and nectarine exports had grown from 104,000 tons to 134,000 tons. He emphasized the significant role of these fruits among Turkey's export products.
Uçak also noted the health benefits of peaches, such as their fiber content aiding digestion, preventing constipation, and balancing blood sugar levels. "Consumption of peaches and nectarines is increasing every year. In 2024, we aim to exceed $250 million in exports for these fruits. Our Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is in negotiations to establish a phytosanitary certification agreement with Far Eastern countries. If these discussions yield positive results and we gain access to the Far Eastern market, our peach and nectarine exports could potentially reach $500 million in the medium term," he added.
Turkey is the third-largest peach producer globally, with an annual production of 1.076 million tons, following China and Italy. "According to 2023 data, we are the second-largest exporter of peaches and nectarines in the world, trailing only Spain. İzmir is one of the key centers for peach production. Our farmers start harvesting at 4 AM, and it's gratifying to see them and our traders and exporters being rewarded for their hard work. I wish everyone a successful season and extend my best wishes for Eid al-Adha to all our producers," said Uçak.
Russia Continues to Show Affection for Turkish Peaches
Between January 1 and June 12, 2024, Turkey exported peaches and nectarines to 59 countries. Russia demonstrated its continued preference for Turkish peaches and nectarines, with a demand worth $75 million. The most significant increase in peach and nectarine exports was to Iraq, where exports surged by an unprecedented 640% from $3.7 million in 2023 to $27.4 million in 2024.
Romania ranked third with a demand of $6.2 million, followed by Ukraine at $4.2 million and Belarus at $2.3 million.
This remarkable growth underscores the increasing global appreciation for Turkish peaches and nectarines, positioning Turkey as a dominant player in the international fruit market.
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