Adana citrus producers face falling prices and export logistics crisis

Citrus producers in Adana, Turkey, are facing significant economic challenges as prices for lemons and mandarins have dropped below seasonal expectations. Lemon prices, which initially ranged between 8 and 12 lira per kilogram, have fallen to approximately 5 lira. Similarly, mandarin prices have decreased to between 5 and 7 lira per kilogram.

Several factors are contributing to this price decline, including the presence of stored products from previous periods and competition from imports arriving from Argentina and South Africa. Additionally, small lemons under 55 millimeters are reportedly remaining on trees due to a lack of buyers.

Logistical issues in the Black Sea are severely hindering exports. Mehmet Akın Doğan, President of the Yüreğir Chamber of Agriculture, noted that while there is international demand, shipping costs have surged due to closed maritime traffic. Transporting goods by road to Russia and Ukraine costs between 9,000 and 10,000 dollars, whereas sea transport costs only about 3,000 dollars.

To address these issues, representatives have met with Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz to request alternative export routes, such as using railway connections through Hatay's Erzin and Dörtyol districts toward Georgia.