Turkish municipalities launch agricultural support initiatives

Various Turkish municipalities are implementing initiatives to bolster rural development and agricultural productivity through direct support and cooperative models.

In Kocaeli, the Metropolitan Municipality is supporting the İzmit Dağköy Agricultural Development Cooperative. This initiative focuses on increasing the participation of women and youth in farming. The cooperative utilizes natural production methods for crops such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and various vegetables, aiming to strengthen local economies and ensure sustainable production.

In Konya, the Metropolitan Municipality operates a Local Product Market in the Meram district. This project allows families from rural neighborhoods to sell their organic and local products directly to consumers without intermediaries. The program also provides producers with certified training in entrepreneurship, marketing, and packaging, alongside physical equipment like market stalls and awnings.

In Manisa, the Metropolitan Municipality has introduced a 75% subsidy for mulch film to assist strawberry producers in the Yunusemre district. This measure is designed to reduce input costs for small-scale farmers, helping to protect family budgets against rising agricultural expenses.