Grain production decreased in Turkey – pulses increased

07-May-2025 08:51 PM

Ankara. Official data reveals a significant decline in Turkey's grain production during 2024, while the output of pulses showed notable growth. According to the government agency Turk State, overall production of grains and other major crops dropped by 5 percent compared to 2023.

Wheat production fell by 6 percent to 20.8 million tonnes, maize by 10 percent to 8.1 million tonnes, and barley by 12 percent, also down to 8.1 million tonnes.

In contrast, pea production surged by 41 percent to 5,353 tonnes, and green lentil production rose sharply by 42 percent to 71,000 tonnes. Gram (including Kabuli varieties) remained steady at 575,000 tonnes.

However, not all pulses performed well. Red lentil production declined by 5 percent to 405,000 tonnes, while dry beans saw a more substantial fall of 16 percent to 279,000 tonnes.

Unseasonal rainfall in April has provided relief to several farming regions, boosting hopes for improved grain output in 2025. Nonetheless, drought conditions persist in Anatolia province, keeping overall expectations cautious, with an average grain production outlook for the current year.

Turkey exports grains and pulses primarily to Algeria, Iraq, Italy, Morocco, and China, while it imports these commodities mainly from Russia, Canada, Mexico, the United States, and Kazakhstan.

Wheat and peas-lentils are sourced from Russia, while lentils and Kabuli gram are mainly imported from Canada. Interestingly, Turkey both imports and exports lentils, reflecting its dual role in the global market.