After the Russian jet crisis in Turkey, Russia closed their doors to Turkish fresh fruit and vegetable exports. After the revelation of the banned products list, a lot of attention has been paid to the fact that lemons are not on it.
Turkey’s export share in Russia
According to Turkish Statistical Institute data, Turkey made 83 million dollars worth of lemon exports to Russia in 2013. In 2014 this fell slightly because of the Russian economic crisis to 78 million dollars worth. In 10 months of this year 53.2 million dollars worth of lemon exports have been made. Although the sales volumes have decreased, in 2013 Turkey had a 62% share of Russian lemon imports, in 2014 this increased to 68%. In the same period, Argentina’s share was 12% and South Africa’s 7%.
Vodka and lemon
Lemon is the price inflation champion in Russia, with prices per kilo increasing from 3 dollars to 10 dollars. It is said that the Russian government left lemons off the list to prevent further price increases. Mediterranean Exporters Union Coordinator Chairman Bulent Aymen believes there is another reason, “In the winter months Russians consume a lot of vodka and lemon. For this reason it wasn’t sanctioned.” He added that lemon is the highest selling citrus product to Russia.
Returned shipments sent to Romania
Aymen explains that from a meeting with the Agriculture Minister, Faruk Celik the day before, he learnt “Our goods are still waiting at the border. Only 160 tons of product has been sent back, 8-9 containers and they were redirected to Romania. So far nothing has been put on the domestic market. Companies are looking to make connections with other countries.”
Exporters hope for support in the future
Under the scope of the West Mediterranean Exporters Union (BAIB), Antalya, Burdur and Isparta carried out 1.3 billion dollars of exports between 1 January- 30 November and 250.3 million dollars, the lion's share of exports were to the Russian Federation. Exporters say that the statement of support from the government is quite hopeful.
