Türkiye’s dried fruit and processed products sector has recorded $1.22 billion in exports to 144 countries and free zones during the first nine months of 2025, according to the Southeastern Anatolia Dried Fruits and Products Exporters’ Association and Anadolu Agency.

From January to September, Türkiye exported 243,544 tons of dried fruits and products, generating $1,222,630,000 in revenue. This represents a 1.7% decline compared to the same period in 2024, when exports totaled $1.24 billion.

Raisins remained the top export earner with $365.9 million, followed by dried apricots at $217 million, and dried figs at $203 million. While dried apricot exports fell 24.1% due to frost damage in key production areas, almond exports surged by 69.8%, marking one of the strongest growths in the sector.

The European Union remained Türkiye’s largest export region, accounting for 42.5% of total exports with $540 million in sales. By country, Germany led with $159 million, followed by the United Kingdom ($150 million) and the United States ($141 million).

Despite challenges posed by adverse weather — particularly frost in southeastern Türkiye affecting apricot yields — the sector demonstrated resilience. Çıkmaz emphasized that dried figs, pistachios, and raisins largely maintained or exceeded last year’s levels.

Mehmet Çıkmaz, President of the Southeastern Anatolia Dried Fruits and Products Exporters’ Association, said: “We continue to explore new markets and promote our products. Despite the challenges, we aim to increase our export figures further. Our year-end target is to reach $1.9 billion.”

The Southeastern Anatolia region alone contributed $174.5 million to exports in the first half of 2025, reflecting a 15.6% increase over the same period last year.

The sector remains optimistic as global demand for Turkish dried fruits continues, driven by quality production standards and sustained promotion efforts.(ILKHA)