THE GLOBAL WINDOW OF TURKISH FOOD AND AGRICULTURE The Global Window of Turkish Food and Agriculture Sector
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October, 2026…
M. Kayhan Yıldırım, Chair of the Turkish Seed Growers Association (TÜRKTOB), stated that they have around 9,000 registered varieties, of these, approximately 3,800 are field crops, 3,400 are vegetables and there are about 1,700 registered varieties of fruits and vines. “New ones are constantly being added to this list,” Yıldırım said.
Pointing out that they take climate change into account regarding production and diversity, Yıldırım explained, “In recent years, the biggest challenges have been climate change and water scarcity. Through our R&D investments and by advancing our domestic breeding programmes, we are working to develop varieties that are more resistant to drought and disease and require less water. We need to strengthen our capabilities in this area, and we are currently in a very good position. Our Ministry of Treasury and Finance and our Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry provide significant support for certified seeds and breeding efforts. Domestic breeding companies receive support and we believe this support will enhance further.”
Expressing their belief that the sector will advance further through both support measures and R&D activities, Yıldırım noted that increased production would also have a positive impact on exports.
Yıldırım also noted that the International Asian Seed Congress (ASC 2026), to be held in Türkiye for the first time, will take place in Antalya from December 1 to 5, adding that the congress would make a significant contribution to the sector.
Highlighting that they expect around 4,000 participants at the congress, organized by the Asia and Pacific Seed Association in cooperation with the Turkish Seed Growers Association and the Turkish Seed Industry Association (TÜRKTED) and under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Yıldırım added that new collaborations could emerge from the event…
