Turkey opens state wheat reserves early, potentially weakening import demand

Turkey’s state grain agency TMO began selling wheat from government reserves on September 1, 2026. The move came earlier than market participants had expected and could reduce Turkey’s import demand in the near term.

Traders had previously expected TMO to resume sales from its reserves in mid-September or from October 1. As a result, Turkish demand for imported wheat had recently been concentrated mainly on prompt shipments for delivery by September 15.

According to Atria Brokers, TMO set the selling price for 12.5% protein wheat at TRY 18,500/t, or around $380/t EXW. The release of state-held grain increases the supply available to domestic processors.

Taking into account the current cost of import licences and logistics, the maximum import parity is estimated at around $295/t CIF Marmara. Offers above this level could become less competitive compared with wheat released from government reserves.

TMO’s early move could therefore reduce Turkey’s need for imported wheat and put additional pressure on prices offered by foreign suppliers. Further buying activity by Turkish importers will largely depend on the volumes and pace of wheat sales from state reserves.