Thanks to the modernization of the Turkish production and logistics process, the tomatoes can now be supplied to European clients every month of the season, says H. Sena Bişgin, an export specialist for Turkish vegetable packer and exporter Akdem Vegetables: "The tomato season lasts for 12 months of the year. Throughout this whole season, we adopt an approach that prioritizes quality in tomato production. Under the close supervision of modern agricultural techniques and field engineers, we aim to ensure quality and freshness at every stage. Furthermore, modernization of our production and logistics processes enables us to respond quickly and efficiently to customer demands throughout the season."
Looking at the production of 2024, volumes are similar to last year. Bişgin emphasizes they'll be able to meet the export targets that the company has set for itself. "Compared to the previous season, we have no loss in terms of volume. Although there are periodic changes depending on weather conditions, tonnage amounts are currently at a level to meet our export targets. We invest in sustainable production methods to increase the amount of products coming from Turkey's fertile agricultural lands. We work with our farmers within the framework of contracted agricultural practices and monitor each production stage in detail. This provides a great advantage not only in terms of volume but also in quality control processes."
Bişgin states that with their ability to meet the MRL requirements of European markets, the countries in Europe are also the main export markets: "Our main export markets are countries such as Germany, Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine, and Russia. The analysis results and quality standards of the products supplied in the European market are of great importance. We carry out controlled agricultural practices to ensure that our products meet the MRL, or Maximum Residue Limit, requirements. This has brought our company in compliance with the European market criteria."
To meet the strict European requirements when it comes to MRL values, Akdem Vegetables has actually made significant investments, Bişgin explains. "Our main challenges include the supply of products in accordance with the analytical criteria demanded, especially for the European market. This process, which requires sensitivity, especially in terms of MRL values, has made it necessary to go beyond traditional production methods. We've invested heavily in the contracted and controlled agriculture model to overcome this problem. Our field engineers work in one-to-one contact with our producers, ensuring that the products are produced at the desired standards. In order to ensure the safety of this process, we're establishing our own laboratory with an investment of approximately $800,000. In addition, by using advanced technology, we accelerate the analysis processes and maximize compliance with standards. Our goal of increasing our current production area to 500,000 m² within five years will further increase our control in this process."
Next to the laboratory, investments for the packaging requirements of clients have also been made, allowing the product to remain fresh for a longer time, Bişgin states: "This all means we are making major investments in line with our growth and sustainability targets. First of all, we've strengthened our cold storage and logistics infrastructure in our production facilities with modern technology. In addition, we use flowpack machines, to meet the different packaging demands of the market. Thanks to these investments, we can preserve the freshness of our products for a longer period of time and can safely deliver our products to different parts of the world. We've also increased the number of our field engineers to further expand our cooperation with our producers working in contract farming areas."
"We are proud to have become a trusted brand in both local and international markets with our sustainable agricultural practices, environmentally friendly production processes, and ethical trade approach. Our product range is not limited to tomatoes but also includes peppers, cucumbers, citrus fruits, and many other vegetables and fruits. Our mission is to bring these valuable products from the fertile soil of Anatolia to the tables all over the world," Bişgin concludes.
For more information:
H. Sena Bişgin
Akdem Vegetables
Tel: +90 554 555 90 10
[email protected]
https://www.akdemsebze.com