Press release…
The export quota practice implemented by Russia, the largest export market in fresh tomato exports, prevents exporters from displaying their real performance in the Russian market.
Stating that Turkiye’s agricultural potential is huge, Aegean Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Exporters’ Association Chairperson Hayrettin Uçak said, “Turkiye ranks 4th in the world in tomato production.”
Noting that this potential is also reflected in exports, Uçak explained, “Tomato products such as tomato and ketchup, dried tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato juice are in great demand. It is industrialized and turned into products with increasing added value. We aim to boost tomato exports by 20 percent in 2022. We have an export target of 1 billion dollars for 2023.”
Expressing that the export quota applied by Russia affected exports negatively, Uçak added, “Since the plane crisis, they have imposed quota on tomatoes. The quota started with 50 thousand tonnes, now it is 300 thousand tonnes. Approximately 296 thousand tonnes were exported. We have a quota gap of close to 4 thousand tonnes. We will soon have filled it.”
“Russia ranks first in the export of fresh tomatoes. If the quota is removed, there will be an increase in exports. If the quota is removed, the export is folded. The fact that the quota is not lifted will upset both our exporters and our producers. Foreign currency inflow to our country will also decrease. The subject is within the knowledge of our President and authorized ministries. They are also taking the necessary initiatives. I hope it gets resolved,” Uçak concluded…