By making use of different growing regions, the company is able to stretch its cherry season over an extended period. As soon as the harvest in Izmir winds down, the company will commence with the following harvest in the Afyon region which is located at 800 meters above sea level.
“All of the cherry volumes from these different regions are then transported to our packhouse in Alaşehir. We’re making use of the same machinery and methods for all these different regions. For instance, we apply mobile hydropullers during the harvest, which are transported by truck.”
In total, the company has a 60 hectares allotted for cherry production. “Our target this year is to export about 300.000 tons to Europe and the Far East. We’re making use of varieties such as 0900 Ziraat and Regina, which are suited perfectly for export.”
Like other cherry producing countries, Turkey is experiencing a season with very low volumes. This provides Turkey with opportunities with regards to the European market. “European supermarkets can’t obtain enough cherries through their regular sources in Greece, Spain and Italy. This means that they have to search for alternative producers, which brings them to us in Turkey. The same goes for markets in the Far East.”
Like other producing countries in Eurasia, Turkey has felt the impact of the Russian ban. However, Taner isn’t too worried about any consequences for the export of cherries. “Of course, Russia was a good market. However, Turkish exporters were only sending small volumes to Russia. The competition from Europe was quite high. Also, Turkish cherry volumes aren’t sufficient enough for Europe as it is, so the lack of the Russian market isn’t that big of problem for us.”
Taner is quite optimistic about the future of the cherries that his company produces. “The quality of our product is excellent. Because of this, we’ve been getting more recognition from clients in the Far East and India. Turkish producers are being recognised as champions of the cherry sector. The competition will always be tough, but our quality is more than a match for our competitors,” says Taner in conclusion.
