Turkish peach producers face losses as prices drop below production costs

Peach producers in Turkey are facing significant economic distress as market prices plummet while production costs continue to rise. In the Çivril district of Denizli, a major production hub, peach prices have dropped from 30 TL to 15 TL per kilogram due to uncertainties in the export market, particularly regarding shipments to Russia.

Farmers report that the current selling price is below the production cost of approximately 22 TL per kilogram, leading to financial losses. This follows a period of high yields that, while ensuring supply, has contributed to the price decline.

Across other regions, including Bursa, the situation is similarly dire. Altaca Kayışoğlu noted that prices for certain varieties, such as the Gülaven peach, have fallen to the 20-25 TL range, compared to approximately 100 TL per kilogram last year. This price collapse coincides with rising input costs for diesel, fertilizer, pesticides, irrigation, electricity, and labor. Experts warn that if producers cannot cover their costs, it may lead to the abandonment of orchards and threaten national food security.