Turkey, one of the most important producers of figs in the world, had a good start to the new season. In the first three weeks of exports; from July 26 to August 17, the country exported 5,143,000 USD (4.35 million Euro) worth of black figs.
The majority of exports consisted of Sarilop variety of figs. It is expected that the export figures will increase with the harvest of Bursa Black variety.
Germany ranked first in Turkey's black fig exports with a value of 1,359,000 USD (1.15 million Euro). This was followed by Russia with 1,070,000 USD (910.000 Euro) and Hong Kong with 804.000 USD (680.000 Euro) Turkey increased its exports to Russia by 46% compared to last year.
Aegean Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Exporters' Association's chairman Hayrettin Ucak said that the fig season has been productive and that the harvest continues.
"Earlier we have announced our export goal as 60 million USD (50.7 million Euro). Our first exports were destined to Germany. There is a high demand from the Far East markets. We export our figs to nearly 50 countries. I believe that we will reach our goal." said Chairman Ucak.
Ucak added that figs are exported to the Far East via air freight due to the short shelf life of the product.
Source: AA