Çermik pepper harvest in Turkey sees price plunge from 450 to 60 lira per kg

The geographically‑protected Çermik pepper from the Çermik district of Diyarbakır Province is in full harvest. Farmers report a very high yield this season, although the start was delayed by unusually heavy winter rains. As the harvest volume increased, the market price fell sharply, dropping from about 450 Turkish lira per kilogram at the beginning of the season to between 60 and 80 lira per kilogram.

Mehmet Turan, who cultivates the pepper in Kale neighbourhood, said the fruit’s distinctive aroma, taste and scent can only be produced in Çermik. His sister Ayşe Turan, who assists the family farm, emphasized the pepper’s unique qualities and the importance of the crop for the local economy and agricultural revitalisation.