Turkey is currently involved with its citrus seasons. The Turkish lemon sector started out with Enterdonat and Meyer lemons and since the 11th of October, grapefruit is being harvested as well. According to Seref In of Ekonomik Sistem, otherwise known as Eko-Sis, the quality of the harvest is excellent.
“The colour and external appearance of our Star Ruby grapefruit is looking very nice this season, when compared to last year,” says Seref. “Sizes are small, which is normal for both this time of year and for the Star Ruby variety itself. Volumes are higher than last year. We aim to export a volume of 3,000 to 5,000 ton per year and this year won’t be any different.”
Of Ekonomik Sistem’s production, 30% is being exported to Europe, another 30% to Russia and yet another 30% to Europe. Being based in Turkey allows for a competitive edge against other supplying countries like Egypt. “We’re lucky, because our product comes out earlier than other countries. We’re one and a half month ahead of Egypt, so we really do not see these countries as competitors."
For future developments, Seref is looking at markets in South East Asia. “Our market is growing. We aim to expand our business in Asia and not so much in Russia. Russia is a difficult market because of the prices. We’ve now entered our second year in exporting to Asia, targeting markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong.”
The grapefruit sector in Florida was hit hard by hurricanes, leading to a drop in production of 50%. For other countries, this provides opportunities for new markets. “We’re going to start exporting to Canada this year,” mentions Seref.
“The colour and external appearance of our Star Ruby grapefruit is looking very nice this season, when compared to last year,” says Seref. “Sizes are small, which is normal for both this time of year and for the Star Ruby variety itself. Volumes are higher than last year. We aim to export a volume of 3,000 to 5,000 ton per year and this year won’t be any different.”
Of Ekonomik Sistem’s production, 30% is being exported to Europe, another 30% to Russia and yet another 30% to Europe. Being based in Turkey allows for a competitive edge against other supplying countries like Egypt. “We’re lucky, because our product comes out earlier than other countries. We’re one and a half month ahead of Egypt, so we really do not see these countries as competitors."
For future developments, Seref is looking at markets in South East Asia. “Our market is growing. We aim to expand our business in Asia and not so much in Russia. Russia is a difficult market because of the prices. We’ve now entered our second year in exporting to Asia, targeting markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong.”
The grapefruit sector in Florida was hit hard by hurricanes, leading to a drop in production of 50%. For other countries, this provides opportunities for new markets. “We’re going to start exporting to Canada this year,” mentions Seref.
All in all, there aren’t really any major changes for the Turkish citrus sector when compared to previous years. “Quality is good and we’re expecting high demand for grapefruit in Europe. The only difference would be the diminished volumes for lemons, as we’re producing 30% less this year. But this isn’t really a problem.”
According to Seref, Turkish growers are increasing their acreage. “In the coming years, I expect higher volumes. Everything is looking good for Turkish citrus. The government is helping as well, by promoting Turkish produce in all foreign markets and creating more awareness for our fruit by way of marketing programs,” says Seref in conclusion.
For more information:
Seref In
Ekonomik Sistem (Turkey)
Tel 0090-324-290-0000
Mob 0090-506-875-4426
Email ekosis2000@hotmail.com
export@eko-sis.com
www.eko-sis.com
Author: Peter Duivenvoorde / Yzza Ibrahim