Russia returns to being number-one market for Turkish produce

Russia is now the number-one destination for Turkey’s fresh produce. The remarkable turn-around follows swiftly on the heels of Russia lifting the sanctions imposed on Turkish produce following the downing of one of its military fighter jets. In the first two months of 2019, Turkey exported approximately $366 million worth of fresh fruits and vegetables, with Russia alone accounting for $105 million. According to Eastern Black Sea Exporters Association (DKİB) data, Turkey exported 697,577 tons of fresh fruits and vegetables to 100 countries in January and February. Russia ranked first in the amount of produce imported from Turkey, followed by Iraq with $34 million and Romania with $33 million.

Turkey expects these volumes to increase still further on 2018 levels, with tomato exports in particular rising by 20% from the same period last year.