The Situation of Regional Concentration of Tomato Foreign Trade in Turkey

Abstract

World trade in agricultural products, tends to increase. Turkey is among the countries in foreign trade advantages with its agricultural potential. As one of the most important tomato producer countries, monitoring of developments in the world tomatoes trade is extremely important for Turkey. The aim of this study was to evaluate Turkey’s position in world tomato trade. The developments of tomato foreign trade between Turkey and importer countries were analysed using Trade Intensity Analysis Method. Turkey supplied %75 of total tomato exports to Russia. Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria and Israel are important markets for tomato export. The epidemic (Covid-19 virus) has also been reflected in the international trade balances in tomato production. Giving importance to Turkey’s political relations and to boost its exports by providing market diversity, it is important for the sustainability of tomato exports. In this context, market researches should be conducted specially to find and entrance into new markets. Besides the fresh tomato, the activities for the export of tomato paste and canned tomato should be implemented.