Turkey Becomes Safe Haven Amid Global Grain Crisis
· GıdaTarım
While logistical risks in the Black Sea and drought in Europe pressure the global wheat market, Turkey stands out with a record harvest of 24.5 million tons and a robust flour industry.
Rising Supply Risk on the Black Sea Route
Escalating military tensions in the Black Sea basin are once again threatening the global grain corridor and world food security. Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy, President of the International Association of Operative Millers and Grain Processors (IAOM) Eurasia, stated that port infrastructures in the region, which supply approximately 30% of the global wheat supply, are being targeted. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture data, Russia's wheat export expectation has fallen to 43-46 million tons, and Ukraine's to 13.5 million tons due to logistical obstacles. Ulusoy emphasized that mutual attacks are complicating logistical operations on the Izmail and Black Sea routes, escalating the scale of the risk.
Record Wheat Harvest Expected in Turkey
Despite price fluctuations and supply crises in global markets, Turkey continues to maintain its domestic market balance. Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy announced that rainfall across Turkey has increased by 76% compared to last year, and a historic record of 24.5 million tons is expected for the wheat harvest. The domestic flour industry, with an annual production capacity of 32 million tons, is in a position completely isolated from the short-term global raw material crisis, thanks to a successful harvest period and a strong stock structure.
European Drought and Export Opportunity
While deepening drought across Europe is causing significant harvest losses, Turkey is consolidating its leadership in flour and bakery product exports. Holding a 23% share in global flour trade and the world championship for 11 years, Turkey is taking on a critical supplier role against decreasing raw material supply. Dr. Ulusoy stated that in this process, where actors like the USA, Canada, and Kazakhstan are prominent in global wheat trade, Turkey is the most strategic country to cover the supply gap in processed grain products in Europe.