It's going to be a very positive Turkish pomegranate season this year, says Akin Soyleyen, marketing manager for Turkish fresh produce exporter Aksun: "We're very happy to say that this year, we're expecting a bountiful pomegranate harvest with increased production volumes compared to previous years. The exceptional flowering period, bolstered by favorable weather conditions and the absence of heavy rainfalls, has contributed to a higher yield. This abundance enables us to meet the rising demand and strengthen our position in both existing and emerging markets. Additionally, the extended supply season into May allows us to provide our quality pomegranates for a longer period than usual."
The weather has been so good for growing the Turkish pomegranates, that Aksun is expecting an extended supply season, Soyleyen explains. "The Turkish weather has been exceptionally favorable for pomegranate cultivation this season. Mild temperatures and timely rainfall during the critical growth phases have contributed to the healthy development of our orchards. Importantly, the absence of heavy rainfalls and extreme weather events like hailstorms or unexpected frosts minimized crop stress and disease prevalence. This resulted in an outstanding flowering period, leading to high-quality fruit with excellent taste and appearance, and an extended supply season."
According to Soyleyen, consumers are including the pomegranates in their diet more and more: "Current demand for pomegranates is robust and continues to grow globally. Consumers are increasingly seeking out superfruits like pomegranates, due to their recognized health benefits, including high antioxidant levels. The extended supply season into May positions us well to meet this heightened demand. We've observed particularly strong interest from markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia."
The logistical challenges have been in place for so long, that Aksun has been able to adapt to the new situation, Soyleyen says. "The Red Sea crisis has presented some logistical challenges, prompting us to adapt and optimize our export strategies proactively. To mitigate potential disruptions, we've diversified our shipping routes and engaged with alternative ports and transportation partners. The extension of our supply season into May provides additional flexibility to navigate these challenges. This approach ensures that our products reach our clients without delays, maintaining the reliability and efficiency that our customers expect from us."
As the season appears to be stable, Aksun will focus on both current and new clients, as they look to expand in the Asian markets. "Our focus this season is twofold. With the extended supply season and increased volumes, we aim to strengthen our relationships in European countries where demand is strong and consistent. However, we'll also be exploring new opportunities in emerging markets. We're targeting expansion into Asian markets, where the appetite for healthy and exotic fruits like pomegranates is on the rise. At this point in the season, prices are favorable for both producers and consumers. Compared to last season, prices are slightly lower, reflecting the higher supply and longer availability period. This pricing strategy not only benefits our customers, but also helps us in expanding our market share."
Soyleyen feels that the Turkish pomegranate is in a very strong position to get ahead of the competition this season: "Our competitors are primarily based in countries like Spain, India and Egypt. However, Turkish pomegranates have distinct advantages that set them apart. Favorable weather conditions and exceptional flowering period have resulted in higher quality fruit and greater volumes. We also have the proximity to major markets, which reduces transit times, ensuring fresher produce upon arrival. Finally, the extended supply season allows us to meet demand, even when others cannot. By leveraging these strengths, we position Turkish pomegranates ahead of the competition."
"We anticipate a dynamic and successful period in the coming weeks. Our teams are focused on ensuring that the harvest proceeds smoothly and that the pomegranates are processed and shipped efficiently. With the extended supply season into May, we expect demand to remain strong and are prepared to respond swiftly to market needs," Soyleyen concludes.
Aksun will be exhibiting during Fruit Attraction in Madrid. You can find their booth in Hall 10, stand 10A14.
For more information:
Akin Soyleyen
Aksun
Tel: +90 324 234 41 90
Mobile: +90 532 590 75 92
Email: [email protected]
www.aksun.com.tr/en/