Turkey's Live Plant and Fresh Produce Exports Surpass $100 M and $200 M Milestones in 2024

Live ornamental plant exports from Turkey reached roughly $100 million in the first half of 2024, a 2 % increase over the same period last year, according to İbrahim Yılmaz, president of the Live Plant and Products Exporters Association. The sector shipped to more than 80 countries, with the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Germany being the top markets, followed by Azerbaijan, Georgia and several Turkic states. Carnations remain the most exported species, while gerberas, begonias and green foliage also contribute significantly.

In the fresh fruit and vegetable segment, the Uludağ Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, led by Hamdi Taner, reported annual export revenues of about $200 million and set targets of $250 million by the end of 2026 and $500 million within four years. A special working group will focus on six products—olive, black fig, cherry, peach, nectarine, and Deveci pear—addressing customs, quality and market‑access issues. Export initiatives include expanding into China for cherries and Japan for black figs, alongside efforts to resolve customs delays and pesticide‑residue concerns.

Both sectors anticipate continued growth through new market development and institutional support, despite challenges such as extreme European heat and rising production costs.