Southeast's Grain Exports Reach $2.8 Billion in 10 Months

According to recent reports, the agriculture sector, particularly in grains, pulses, oilseeds, and their products, has achieved an export revenue of $2.8 billion over a ten-month period in Southeastern Anatolia. The region exported approximately 1 million tons less basic food products compared to the same period last year, resulting in a 22.2% decline in volume. However, thanks to the increase in average export unit prices, the decrease in export revenues remained at 7.5%. In October alone, the region exported 76,700 tons of pasta, 31,400 tons of sunflower oil, and over 13,000 tons of sweet biscuits, wafers, and chocolate products. The total revenue from grain exports in the region for October reached $291 million.

Celal Kadooğlu, the president of the Southeastern Anatolia Grains, Pulses, Oilseeds, and Products Exporters Association, highlighted the impact of the decline in wheat flour exports on this volume decrease. He noted that average export unit prices in the region have approached a 19% increase, stating, "In this ten-month period, the total revenue from our exports of sweet biscuits, wafers, and chocolate products has reached $430 million, with exports nearing 120,000 tons. The average export unit prices for these products currently fluctuate between $3.5 and $4, showing a year-on-year increase. We are a region that hosts star brands in the production of these fast-moving shelf products, generating nearly $500 million in export revenue from them annually. However, we need to promote these values in the region more through creative marketing efforts, aligning them with global consumer trends. The recent phenomenon of Dubai Chocolate serves as a great example for all businesses. Gaziantep, a strong and competitive city in the production of both chocolate and pistachio products, could have directed this global trend much earlier. If we can increase the number of value-added products and better promote them to international consumers using modern communication channels like social media, the whole world will be talking about Gaziantep."

Kadooğlu also addressed the impact of reduced rainfall this year on grain planting, which has raised concerns about agricultural productivity for producers. He mentioned, "Rainfall in Southeastern Anatolia was 80% below last year in October. Critical seasonal rainfall for planting has not increased as of November. The drought affecting grain seeding raises uncertainties about next year’s crop. Our farmers are expecting new incentives and loans to establish modern systems that conserve water in agricultural production. The GAP project, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, has significantly contributed to providing water to agricultural lands in our region. Our government has developed valuable projects for the development of the provinces in the region. New support for farmers in solving issues arising from global climate change will also enhance the efficiency of investments made so far."