Turkey hazelnut producers face economic strain amid falling prices

Hazelnut producers in Turkey's Black Sea region are facing significant economic challenges during the 2026 harvest season. Free market prices have dropped to levels between 160 and 170 TL per kilogram, which producers claim is below their production costs, estimated by some at approximately 187 TL. This decline follows a previous season where prices reached 330-360 TL.

Farmers have expressed frustration with the Toprak Mahsulleri Ofisi (TMO) regarding purchase quotas. They report that being unable to sell their entire stock to the TMO forces them to sell to private traders at lower market rates, exacerbating financial strain from rising costs for fertilizer, fuel, and labor. Additionally, there are reports that Tarım Kredi Kooperatifleri may not participate in purchases this season due to existing stocks.

Cem Şenocak, President of the National Hazelnut Council, warned that Turkey is losing global market share to competitors like Italy, Azerbaijan, Georgia, the US, and Chile. He suggested a differentiated support model to protect traditional production in hilly areas versus flat plains. Meanwhile, due to the steep terrain and recent rains, many farmers are forced to dry their hazelnuts on the sidewalks of the Black Sea Coastal Road, often requiring overnight watches to prevent theft.