Turkey and China sign $60 million bay leaf export protocol

Turkey and China have signed a new protocol to facilitate the export of bay leaves, a move expected to generate approximately $60 million in annual export value. The agreement was signed by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ahmet Gümen and Zhang Geping, head of the Inspection and Internal Audit Department of the China Customs General Administration.

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı stated that this agreement is a result of strategic agricultural diplomacy aimed at increasing the visibility of Turkish products in international markets. He noted that the Chinese market holds significant potential and that this protocol could open doors for other Turkish agricultural goods.

Beyond bay leaves, officials are currently in discussions regarding the export of poultry, seafood, and other agricultural products to China. Additionally, the Ministry mentioned ongoing efforts to secure fertilizer supplies through agreements with Russia to ensure continuity in agricultural production.