Turkey's Olive Oil Production Set to Reach Record High Amid Challenges
Turkey's olive oil production is expected to reach a record high this year, driven by a large crop volume of 3.8 million metric tons (+55% year-on-year). This will enable the country to produce 400,000 metric tons of olive oil, according to Mustafa Kürlek, Chairman of the Ayvalık Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneurs Board and Chairman of the Board of Köklü Olive Oil.
The Turkish industry is facing challenges, however. Around 28% of Turkey's olive oil exports go to the USA, but the country is at a disadvantage due to adjusted US tariffs. The harvesting process in many regions still relies on manual labor, driving up production costs further compared to countries like Spain.
Kürlek expects prices for Turkish olive oil not to rise this year and are actually expected to be around 30% cheaper than last year. He also sees potential in the domestic consumer market, but notes that Turkey needs to raise its profile as a country of origin to strengthen its market position.