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Annual animal product exports reach 3.5 billion dollars

Müjdat Sezer, Chairman of the Istanbul Aquatic Products and Animal Products Exporters' Association (İSHİB), who participated in the World Food Istanbul fair in Büyükçekmece, Istanbul, stated that Turkey exports 3.5 billion dollars worth of poultry, aquatic products, and meat products annually. The World Food Istanbul fair, attended by producers from both Turkey and many other countries, opened its doors yesterday at the TÜYAP Congress and Fair Center. The fair, which will last for four days, provided participating companies the opportunity to showcase their products to attendees. Among the groups participating in the fair was Has Tavuk. Müjdat Sezer, the Chairman of Has Tavuk and also the Chairman of the Istanbul Aquatic Products and Animal Products Exporters' Association, engaged with visitors at the stand they set up, providing information. Sezer also shared data regarding Turkey's exports in this sector. Expressing his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the fair, Müjdat Sezer said, "As the Chairman of the Animal Products and Exporters' Association, I would like to provide some information on a couple of issues. First and foremost, we are a group that produces animal proteins, referred to as animal products. Turkey is indeed a very strong country in terms of both quality and capacity in this regard. The annual export value of animal products reaches 3.5 billion dollars. This includes poultry, white meat products, eggs, aquatic products, dairy products, red meat products, and honey. When we combine all these, we achieve 3.5 billion dollars in sales. Of this, 1.5 billion dollars comes from aquatic products, 1 billion dollars from poultry products, and the remaining 1 billion dollars is shared among the other sectors. The pride-worthy point here is that, as you know, the average sales price of Turkey's export products is above 1 dollar, and our products fall into the category of value-added products priced above 1 dollar. We are working quite effectively as a sector, feeding both Turkey and the world." Regarding poultry products, Sezer mentioned that there is a significant market in the Middle East and Iraq. He continued, "In aquatic products, we are strong in Europe and Russia, and in egg products, especially in the hatchery sector, where Turkey holds an important position globally. Here, Turkey sells these products to nearly 80 countries. We have a wide range, with most exports going to Europe and the Middle East, mainly due to their proximity to Turkey in terms of logistics. There should be no obstacles in front of Turkey's exports because the country has a very high production capacity and high quality. In the global market, there are two important factors for competition: price and logistics. Logistically, we are in a good position. We are the closest to countries that need all kinds of food products. Therefore, we must have a strategy and goal to increase production."

The largest price decrease for producers was seen in potatoes, with a drop of 29.8%

Şemsi Bayraktar, President of the Union of Turkish Agricultural Chambers (TZOB), stated, "The price drop in potatoes was followed by a 25.5% decrease in lemons, 20.9% in green onions, and 20.4% in dry onions." Bayraktar made a press statement regarding the price changes between producers and markets for August. "In August, the largest price difference between producers and markets was seen in lemons, with a difference of 370.4%." Evaluating the price differences between producers and markets in August, Bayraktar said, "In August, the largest price difference between producers and markets was seen in lemons, with a difference of 370.4%. Lemons were followed by carrots with 323.9%, dry onions with 262.1%, and zucchini with 249.6%. Lemons were sold for 4.7 times more, carrots for 4.2 times more, dry onions for 3.6 times more, and zucchini for 3.5 times more. Lemons, which were priced at 11.17 liras for producers, were sold for 52.54 liras in the market; carrots, which were priced at 8 liras for producers, were sold for 33.91 liras; dry onions, which were priced at 4.88 liras, were sold for 17.67 liras; and zucchini, which were priced at 8.75 liras, were sold for 30.59 liras in the market." "Cucumbers saw the highest price increase in the market, with a rise of 39.4%." Bayraktar noted that in August, out of 37 products in the market, 22 saw price increases, 14 saw price decreases, and 1 had no price change. He continued his speech as follows: "Cucumbers saw the highest price increase in the market, with a rise of 39.4%. This was followed by zucchini with a 35.5% increase, eggplants with a 35.4% increase, and lettuce with a 26.5% increase. The product that saw the largest price decrease in the market was dried figs, with a drop of 24.4%. The price decrease in dried figs was followed by lemons with a 19.3% drop, peaches with an 11.1% drop, and green peppers with a 10.1% drop." "The largest price drop for producers was seen in potatoes, with a 29.8% decrease." Referring to producer prices, Bayraktar noted that in August, prices increased for 18 out of 29 products, decreased for 8, and remained unchanged for 3. He added: "The largest price drop for producers was seen in potatoes, with a 29.8% decrease. The price drop in potatoes was followed by a 25.5% decrease in lemons, a 20.9% decrease in green onions, and a 20.4% decrease in dry onions. The largest price increase for producers was seen in dried grapes, with an 83.3% increase. The price increase in dried grapes was followed by a 47.8% increase in dried figs, a 35.8% increase in eggs, and a 34.4% increase in dried beans." "A 10% increase in the planting area for dry onions compared to the previous year is expected." Bayraktar continued: "This month, especially in potatoes, dry onions, and lemons, producer prices decreased by 20% to 30%. The harvest of early potatoes started 15-20 days earlier this year. As the early varieties of summer potatoes are about to finish, the harvest of medium-early varieties has also begun. This year, compared to last year, the high yield and the inability to store summer potatoes have caused a decrease in producer prices. The producer price of potatoes, which is sold at an average of 15 liras in the market, falling to as low as 4.5 liras has caused producers to suffer. A 10% increase in the planting area for dry onions compared to the previous year is expected. However, based on the information we have received from the field, we anticipate that this increase will be even higher."

"380 thousand tons of contribution from the Konya Plain to certified seed production

Konya Chamber of Agricultural Engineers President Burak Kırkgöz, who emphasized the improvement in production quality in agriculture, said, "While we used to be a country that imported seeds, we have now risen to become a country that exports seeds." The Konya Plain, known as Turkey's agricultural hub, accounts for 25% of the certified seed production in Turkey. Of Turkey's 1.5 million tons of certified seed production, 380 thousand tons are produced in Konya. "Approximately 380 thousand tons are produced in the Konya region" Burak Kırkgöz, President of the Konya Branch of the Chamber of Agricultural Engineers (ZMO), explained that a significant portion of seed production in Turkey takes place in the Konya region, stating, "The Konya region ranks first in our country in seed production. Approximately 25% of the 1.5 million tons of seeds produced in our country, around 380 thousand tons, are produced in the Konya region. Of course, seed production activities in Konya gained significant momentum with the Seed Law No. 5553, enacted in 2006. With the introduction of this law, seed production activities in our country began to develop further. Previously, we were a country that imported seeds from abroad, but now we have risen to the status of a country that exports seeds. Our Ministry is conducting serious work, especially regarding seed production. The advancement of seed production in our country required focusing on international efforts, which has happened in recent years. We have now become a country that exports seeds abroad on a significant scale." "It has been determined that the use of certified seeds can increase yield per unit area by up to 20%" Burak Kırkgöz, Konya Branch President, emphasized that the certified seed use support announced this year met expectations, stating, "The supports were positively received by our farmers and companies. Approximately 122 liras of support per decare will be provided for seeds, which equates to 5.3 liras per kilogram. Considering the seed prices this year, the 5.3 lira support provided by our Ministry significantly impacts seed sales. It has been determined that the use of certified seeds can increase yield per unit area by up to 20%. We especially recommend that our farmers in cereal-growing areas turn to and prefer certified seeds. Currently, companies engaged in seed production in our country can produce enough seeds to sow all areas in the country. However, serious work needs to be done regarding sales. I believe that our farmers are now aware of this. When certified seeds are used, our costs per unit area also decrease. For example, with uncertified seed use, when the increased occurrence of diseases and pests and the resulting yield losses are added, certified seeds may sometimes seem expensive to our farmers. However, when the additional costs of using uncertified seeds are considered, they can exceed the cost of certified seeds." Highlighting that certified seed production involves great efforts, Kırkgöz said, "Our companies producing certified seeds carry out regular field inspections from the day they plant the parent seeds in the field, ensuring the removal of foreign substances and disease control in the fields. These are matters that require effort and time, as the certified seed production process takes approximately 8-9 months. By contracting with farmers, we carry out this production and later clean the seeds harvested from these areas in processing facilities to meet the standards of certified seeds by removing waste or foreign materials to obtain clean seeds. The seeds are then treated with chemicals, packaged, and certified."

The fishermen from Sinop are smiling thanks to the bonito fish

In Sinop, with the end of the fishing ban, the fishermen's nets were filled with bonito fish as they went out to sea. The fishing ban, which began on April 15th in Turkey, ended on September 1st. Following the lifting of the ban, fishermen from Sinop set out to sea with a 'Vira Bismillah' (a traditional phrase used when starting a fishing expedition). The fishermen began catching the first fish of the new season by casting their nets into the sea in the early hours of the morning. As they pulled in their first nets, they caught a large amount of bonito fish, indicating a strong start to the season. While the fishermen operating off the coast of Türkeli, Sinop, were smiling, it was observed that the nets were full of bonito fish.

High interest in the public market

In Zonguldak, the affordability of prices at the public market increased interest. The public market, held every Wednesday and Saturday in the Soğuksu neighborhood of Zonguldak, experienced one of its busiest days. Citizens started coming to the market early in the morning to do their shopping. The generally affordable prices at the stalls increased purchasing power. At the market, onions were sold for 12.5 Liras, potatoes for 15 Liras, tomatoes for 15 Liras, cucumbers for 25 Liras, lemons for 30 Liras, green beans for 80 Liras, peppers for 50 Liras, and zucchinis for 25 Liras.

The fishing ban has been lifted: The first auction was held in Bandırma

In Bandırma, Balıkesir, following the lifting of the fishing ban, the season's first fish were brought to the Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Bandırma Seafood Market and sold. On September 1st, with the end of the fishing ban, the first fish of the new season were sold early in the morning. The auction, held at the Bandırma Seafood Market at dawn, was attended by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Akın, Bandırma Mayor Dursun Mirza, fishermen, and local residents. The fish were brought to the market in crates and sold via auction. The auction began with the traditional first whistle blown by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Akın. People interested in buying the season's first fresh fish participated in the auction. The program also included prayers for a successful fish season. On the first day of the fishing season, sardines were the most abundant catch from the sea. During the first auction, a crate of sardines was sold for 1,000 Turkish Liras. ‘We have united with all fishermen who earn their bread from the sea’ Expressing wishes for a bountiful new season, Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Akın said, 'At the Bandırma Fish Market, we all together said 'Vira Bismillah' (an expression used by fishermen when starting a new journey). We have united with all fishermen who earn their bread from the sea. Hopefully, it will be a season with plenty of fish that will meet the needs of the entire country. I wish all fishermen a safe and successful season with abundant earnings.' ‘We are creating our own kitchen under the name Yakın Mutfak’ Continuing his speech by announcing the good news of new eateries, Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Akın said, 'We are creating our own kitchen under the name Yakın Mutfak (Close Kitchen) in all districts of Balıkesir. At Yakın Mutfak, 5 dishes will cost 50 Liras. We came here today to increase the prosperity of our tradespeople. We will also use these fish in our city eateries.'

Support for farmers from the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality

The Mersin Metropolitan Municipality, which provides support tailored to the needs of producers, has also extended agricultural support to farmers in Kazanlı District. At the Agricultural Support Distribution Ceremony, attended by Metropolitan Mayor Vahap Seçer, 3,000 producers received greenhouse twine, 1,000 producers received sticky traps, and under the Mediterranean Fruit Fly Hydrolyzed Protein Distribution Project, 888 citrus producers received 14,170 liters of hydrolyzed protein. Additionally, the Mediterranean Agricultural Chamber received one soil analysis device. "This year, we will provide hydrolyzed protein support for the first time" Meeting with producers in Kazanlı, Mayor Seçer emphasized that Kazanlı and Adanalıoğlu are covered greenhouse areas and stated that they will provide support for greenhouse farming. He expressed hope that the support would be beneficial and highlighted that this year they will be providing hydrolyzed protein support for the first time. Seçer noted, "The Mediterranean fruit fly has become a pest that causes significant damage in this region and results in considerable farmer grievances. I must say that our contributions alone will not solve this problem. All institutions must do their part for effective results; only then can we achieve a prosperous state and country." "If there is no food, there is no agriculture; if there is no production, there is no life" Seçer emphasized that all the support provided is funded by public money, stating, "We are spending your money for you." He highlighted the importance of agriculture in Turkey, saying, "Without food, there is no agriculture; without production, there is no life. Can the material value of life be measured? For the health of our children and grandchildren, our country needs to produce. Our country should not be dependent on external sources. We provide these supports with this awareness." "We allocated 119 million lira for agriculture in 2024" Seçer announced that the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality has allocated a total budget of 119 million lira for agriculture in 2024, and these supports will continue to increase each year. He mentioned that they continue to provide services without discrimination among regions and that they offer support according to the needs of each region based on their five years of experience. Seçer pointed out that without support, farmers would not be able to produce, adding, "Fuel, fertilizers, and agricultural chemicals are expensive. Wherever you go in the world, the government provides support to farmers. This is the case in America, Europe, and it must be so in Turkey as well. But the difference is that these countries have stable agricultural policies. In our country, there are significant issues with this, as in other areas. The lack of continuity in agricultural policies puts farmers in a difficult position. It is a shame and a sin for the farmers." "There is no abundance where there is no harmony" Seçer emphasized their support for farmers and producers at every stage of production, stating, "We love those who work, produce, and contribute to this country, and we stand by them. No one should have any doubts." He stressed the importance of working in harmony and peace with district municipalities, saying, "There is no abundance where there is no harmony, only conflict and unrest. We want to work peacefully and in harmony. If every elected mayor is working for the city, it is fitting for the Metropolitan Mayor to collaborate and facilitate their work. The citizens will benefit from this." Seçer also announced that sewerage work has started from Adanalıoğlu and Homurlu areas to Kazanlı, stating, "We are completely solving the sewerage problem in that region. As for road-related shortcomings, rest assured, everything will be addressed as planned." Following the speeches, symbolic distribution of the support was carried out.

Tomatoes will not be left in the fields; support for tomato paste factories

In response to the farmers' grievances, the Ministry of Trade has announced support for tomato paste factories and taken significant steps to ensure tomatoes do not remain in the fields. AK Party Bursa Provincial Chairman Davut Gürkan, along with AK Party Members of Parliament Refik Özen and Mustafa Yavuz, visited tomato paste factories in Karacabey and Mustafakemalpaşa and revealed that the government will support factories that commit to purchasing a certain amount of tomatoes. Farmers in Mustafakemalpaşa and Karacabey, who complained about the paste factories not buying their products, blocked the Bursa-Balıkesir road on August 8. The farmers, who blocked the road for approximately three hours, sought assistance from officials to resolve the issue. The then Governor of Bursa, Mahmut Demirtaş, had previously engaged with paste factories to prevent tomatoes from being left in the fields. Following this, AK Party Provincial Chairman Davut Gürkan, AK Party Bursa MP Refik Özen, AK Party Bursa MP Mustafa Yavuz, Bursa Agriculture and Forestry Director İbrahim Acar, AK Party Karacabey District Chairman Gültekin Saygısever, and AK Party Mustafakemalpaşa District Chairman Mutlu Turgut took action. The delegation visited and inspected the tomato paste factories in Karacabey and Mustafakemalpaşa. AK Party Provincial Chairman Davut Gürkan stated that as a result of consultations with the Ministry of Trade and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, special support will be provided to paste producers who purchase tomatoes at the specified price. He said, "We are having a very productive season in Karacabey and Mustafakemalpaşa. Compared to last year, the planting area has increased from 163,000 decares to 173,000 decares. This indicates a significant increase in production, with a 20% rise compared to last year. Bursa has regions that produce 25% of Turkey's tomato paste. It is the leading region in Turkey for tomato paste production. This area is putting significant effort into tomato production, which is why their expectations are high, and agriculture is shaped around these expectations. Last year, due to market prices surpassing contract prices, our farmers avoided contract prices this year. The excess production and lack of contracts caused some confusion at the start. Thankfully, we are now at the peak of the season. About 15-20 days from now, purchases will decrease, but I want to thank the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, the Minister of Trade, and our MPs for their significant efforts from the start of the season regarding farmers' requests. Recently, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat announced that factories purchasing at a specified price range would receive support." Davut Gürkan noted that the support from the Ministry of Trade is a significant morale boost for factories involved in production, purchasing, and national exports. He said, "The factory we visited today handles nearly 400,000 tons out of the 1.5 million tons produced in this region. They purchase around 4,000 to 5,000 tons daily. They are also trying to alleviate the farmers' concerns. If the factories continue to support purchases based on the assistance from our Ministry of Trade, I believe the process will be resolved to the satisfaction of both sides. I hope this prosperity also translates into commercial gains. As of today, a special support will be provided to producers purchasing at the determined price range, which will greatly benefit producers and address the excess production and recent production issues." AK Party Bursa MP Refik Özen expressed, "We have been following this process from the beginning. We are here to see both the paste factories and the current situation of the farmers in the field. We are experiencing a fruitful year for all products. Issues with prices have arisen due to factors such as product abundance and the return of the international paste market. We have been working diligently to eliminate and minimize grievances from the start, and we continue to do so. I hope to see positive results from the steps we have taken." AK Party Bursa MP Mustafa Yavuz added, "We have been monitoring the process from the beginning. We are pleased to see that the efforts are bearing fruit in the field. In our discussions with the factories, we observed a positive collaboration. Moving forward, we have experienced a period where agricultural insurance and contract farming are more clearly understood."

Cooperative President Ünlü: 'This year, there are 50 times more bonito'

In Sinop, known as one of the important fishing centers, fishermen are completing their preparations for the fishing season starting on September 1. Namık Ünlü, President of the Sinop Central Fisheries Cooperative Union, stated that they have largely completed their preparations for September 1 and made some comments. Namık Ünlü noted that this year’s bonito fishing is expected to be better than last year, saying, "This year, we have started to prepare our nets before the season, and our crews have also arrived. On September 1, we will say 'Vira Bismillah,' hopefully. The bonito fishing looks very promising. The current signs in the sea suggest that there are about 50 times more bonito than last year. We currently have 100 boats equipped for bonito fishing, and they report seeing much larger fish. We will see for ourselves when we head out to sea. We expect this season to be very productive for bonito fishing because the indicators are very positive. Last year, there were no bonito, but anchovies were abundant. This year, it seems we will replace them with bonito. It is too early to comment on anchovies at the moment because when there are plenty of bonito, they tend to grind up anchovies like a mill. For a fish to grow to one kilogram, it needs to eat at least 22 kilograms of anchovies or horse mackerel."

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