Turkey reports growth in exports and agricultural production

Turkey's export sectors show varied performance across different industries. In September, total exports rose by 15.4% to approximately $26 billion, though exporters face high costs and financing pressures. The trade deficit for the first nine months of 2026 reached $71 billion.

The aquaculture sector is seeing significant growth. The Aegean Fisheries and Animal Products Exporters' Association reported that exports reached $1.509 billion in the first nine months of 2026, a 15% increase. Specifically, anchovy exports saw a massive surge, with volume increasing by nearly 80% to reach $13.6 million. Ukraine has emerged as a major market for anchovies, while Belgium and France remain key buyers.

In the metals sector, the Mediterranean Iron and Non-Ferrous Metals Exporters' Association reported a 13% increase in exports for the first nine months, totaling $2.5 billion. Meanwhile, agricultural data from the Turkish Statistical Institute shows that cow milk production rose by 9.5% in August, exceeding 1 million tons.

Other sectors, such as pulses and vegetable oils, are also expanding through market diversification, with significant growth noted in alternative markets like Uganda, Oman, and Mexico.