Türkiye has a significant advantage in this transformation process due to its production infrastructure, logistics capabilities, and extensive market network. The resilient performance in exports in recent years, when evaluated together with the unit price advantage achieved, particularly in value-added products, reveals that our food sector has kept its competitive strength in global markets. The decline in traditional markets being offset by growth in new markets, particularly in the US and the Middle East, confirms that market diversification strategies are progressing in the right direction.

 

Measures supporting price stability in the domestic market also create an important foundation for maintaining competitiveness in foreign trade. Despite global cost pressures, Türkiye's ability to manage its food supply chain and the determined stance of public authorities in combating inflation contribute to making market expectations more predictable. This stable environment is critical for our exporting companies to be able to make long-term plans and open up new markets.

 

As Europe's largest agricultural producer, Türkiye has generated over $112 billion in foreign trade surplus over the past 23 years, demonstrating its strong export potential in the food sector. Today, the food industry plays a strategic role in the Turkish economy not only in terms of production and employment but also in terms of foreign trade balance and export sustainability. At a time when global grain production is approaching record levels, the expectation of more predictable supply chains and normalization of financing conditions is bringing about a more rational pricing environment in international trade. Türkiye is among the countries that maintain their competitiveness in this new balance and stand out with their market diversity.

 

Throughout this process, our Sector Board and affiliated Exporters' Associations continue to work together with a shared vision to maintain and enhance Turkey's competitive strength in food exports. In a period when global trade is rapidly reshaping itself, we see it as a fundamental priority to use our sector's production, export, and organizational capacity more effectively, enabling our companies to establish a permanent, sustainable, and strong position in new markets. With collective wisdom, coordination, and a long-term perspective, we will continue to support every step that strengthens Turkey's position in the global food trade.

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Ahmet Tiryakioğlu

Chairman of TİM Cereals, Pulses, Oil Seeds and Products Sector Board