Manisa grape growers protest soaring costs and falling prices

Grape producers in Manisa’s districts of Alaşehir, Sarıgöl and surrounding areas report that production costs for diesel, fertilizer, pesticides, electricity and labour have risen by 50‑80 % over the past year, while the price of dry grapes has dropped sharply – from about 115 lira per 100 kg two years ago to 75‑80 lira today. The sharp mismatch leaves many farmers unable to cover expenses and threatens the continuity of family vineyards.

The growers have called for an urgent action plan, demanding that the Toprak Mahsulleri Ofisi (TMO) announce clear alım prices, that export support be strengthened, and that domestic consumption of dry grapes be boosted. Manisa Trade Borsa President Sadık Özkasap highlighted that Turkey’s internal consumption of dry grapes is only about 40 000 tonne per year, far below the 100 000‑tonne target, and that roughly 85 % of the production is exported to Europe. He urged policies to increase local use, revive “grape school” projects and expand grape‑based food products such as pekmez and vinegar.