Turkey increases fresh vegetable exports by 10%, with Ukraine among largest buyers

Turkey increased its fresh vegetable exports by 10% year-on-year in January–September 2026, reaching $822.7 mln compared with $749.2 mln a year earlier. Over the nine-month period, the country shipped a total of 651.1 thsd tons of vegetables to international markets. Ukraine was among the largest importers, purchasing nearly $50 mln worth of Turkish vegetables. This was reported by Anadolu Agency, citing data from Turkish exporters.

Tomatoes and sweet peppers account for the bulk of Turkey’s vegetable exports, together generating approximately 70% of total export revenue. In particular, the value of tomato exports increased by 4% to $304.2 mln. Sweet pepper exports grew even faster, generating $275.5 mln in revenue for Turkish producers, up 29% compared with the same period in 2025. These two crops therefore remain the leading products in Turkey’s fresh vegetable exports.

Turkey also generated substantial export revenue from other vegetable crops. Over the nine-month period, exports of cucumbers and gherkins reached $61.4 mln, zucchini $57.4 mln, and carrots and radishes $39.6 mln. The expansion in exports indicates continued demand for Turkish vegetables in international markets. Meanwhile, tomatoes and peppers remain the industry’s main sources of export revenue and its most important export products.

Romania was the largest buyer of Turkish fresh vegetables, importing $147 mln worth of products in January–September. Germany ranked second with $132.7 mln, followed by Russia with $76.1 mln. Other major export destinations included Bulgaria ($55.5 mln), Ukraine ($50 mln) and the Netherlands ($47.8 mln). Ukraine therefore ranked fifth among the largest importers of Turkish vegetables, accounting for approximately 6% of Turkey’s total export revenue in this segment.

According to Hayrettin Uçak, Chairman of the Board of the Turkish Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Exporters’ Associations, neighboring countries and the European market play an important role in export development, as consumer requirements continue to evolve. To maintain their competitive positions, Turkish suppliers need to take account of buyers’ purchasing habits, offer products of appropriate quality and packaging, and ensure timely deliveries. The ability to adapt product ranges and logistics to customer needs remains one of the key factors supporting the further development of Turkey’s fresh vegetable exports.

Tags: Ukraine, Turkey, export