Turkey is celebrating a remarkable achievement in its hazelnut industry, solidifying its status as a leading exporter to China. According to reports, the 2023/24 hazelnut production season has yielded impressive results, with exports reaching 303,458 metric tons. This outstanding performance has resulted in an export value of $2.349 billion, reflecting a robust increase of 30.9% compared to the previous season.
The success can be attributed to the exceptional quality of Turkish hazelnuts, which are highly regarded in international markets. Additionally, favorable conditions compared to other hazelnut-producing regions, which have faced challenges such as lower production and diminished nut quality, have benefitted Turkey.
Turkey’s exports to China have seen significant growth, with a reported 11.6% year-on-year increase in export value from January to July 2024, totaling $1.8 billion. Notably, hazelnuts and hazelnut products have become the fifth-largest export category for Turkey, trailing only behind mineral products, chemical products, steel, and textiles.
The trade dynamics between Turkey and China have shifted favorably, with Turkish hazelnuts primarily imported as kernels, while the U.S. exports mostly in-shell nuts. In recent seasons, Chinese importers have increasingly turned to Turkish hazelnuts, resulting in a substantial rise in imports.
Data for the first eight months of 2024 reveals that Turkey supplied China with 3,321 metric tons of hazelnut kernels valued at approximately 193 million yuan ($27.1 million). In contrast, U.S. exports during the same period fell to 574.5 metric tons worth 8.59 million yuan ($1.21 million). This marks an impressive 160% increase in Turkey’s export volume to China compared to the previous year, showcasing the growing demand for Turkish products.
While the U.S. has historically been a major exporter of in-shell hazelnuts, recent trends indicate a decline, with exports decreasing by about 35% since the 2020/21 season. Conversely, U.S. exports of domestic kernel hazelnut products have more than quadrupled during the same timeframe, highlighting the adaptability of producers to changing market conditions.
As the 2024/25 season begins, Turkey has set a target of exporting at least 300,000 metric tons of hazelnuts. With a commitment to quality and sustainable farming practices, Turkey is poised to further enhance its position in the global hazelnut market, particularly in China. This positive outlook reflects not only the strength of Turkey’s agricultural sector but also its vital role in international trade relations.
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