Early Mandarin Harvest Officially Begins in Cukurova

September 30, 2026 · GıdaTarım

Harvest permits have been issued for early mandarin varieties reaching maturity in Adana and Mersin, with the export schedule set for October 6.

The much-anticipated harvest season for early mandarin varieties cultivated in Adana and Mersin, key citrus production hubs in Turkey, has officially commenced. Following field inspections conducted by a commission coordinated by the Ministry of Trade on September 25, it was determined that varieties such as Okitsu, Miho Wase, Primasol, Marisol, and Early Enn have reached maturity. With the decision made, harvesting of these varieties was permitted starting September 29, 2026. Producers in the region have begun entering their orchards to pick the first mandarins of the new season.

Mandarins are among the products with the highest strategic and economic value in Turkey's fresh fruit and vegetable exports. According to data from the Ministry of Trade, a total revenue of $912.6 million was generated from mandarin exports in 2025. Compared to the previous year, the export volume increased by 34%, while the export value rose by 92%. With this performance, mandarins alone accounted for 25% of Turkey's annual fresh fruit and vegetable export revenue.

The commencement of harvesting in the orchards does not immediately mean direct shipment of the produce abroad. According to the authorized commission's schedule, export permits for early varieties will become effective on October 6, 2026. During the week between harvesting and export, the selection, sizing, grading, and packaging of the products will be completed. For other mandarin varieties that will ripen in the later stages of the season, separate harvesting and export schedules will be announced at a later date.

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