Turkey fish markets see abundance as bonito prices drop

Following the end of the fishing ban on September 1, fish markets across Turkey are experiencing a significant surge in variety and volume. The Black Sea region, in particular, is seeing a massive influx of bonito (palamut), with fishermen reporting a level of abundance not seen in 12 years.

In Trabzon, bonito is being sold for approximately 100 lira per kilogram, while in Kastamonu's Cide district, prices have dropped as low as 40 to 60 lira due to the high supply. Other seafood, including anchovies (hamsi), horse mackerel (istavrit), and sea bass (levrek), are also widely available. In Izmir, the seafood market reported an 8 percent increase in transaction volume compared to the same period last year, reaching over 9,000 tons in September.

While the abundance benefits consumers with lower prices, some fishermen note challenges such as high demand for supplies like ice and foam crates. In Kütahya, local businesses have even introduced promotional campaigns to encourage consumption during this peak season.