Sultanas, the worst seems to be over

MANISA/TEHRAN. Turkish vineyards in the growing regions are developing well, and growers take the necessary precautions to protect their crops. Sultana exports from Iran have declined this year, the leading customer so far being Iraq.

Frosty nights had severely affected the young blossoms in parts of Turkey. Apricots are particularly affected here. According to current information, in Manisa, the central growing region for Turkish sultanas, the situation is much more relaxed. The first flowerheads are now forming on the vines, as the weather offers the best conditions for a good crop. Meanwhile, the growers are busy fertilizing and spraying the fields with pesticides. The season is ending, and prices seem to have stabilized for the time being, with sultanas, type 10 showing more significant fluctuations now and then.

Export remains above last year.

Last week, 5,722 mt of sultanas and raisins were exported from Turkey, a considerable quantity and an increase of 600 mt compared to the same week the previous year (5,111 mt). The export volume since the beginning of this season comes to 175,648 mt, which means that exports have increased by a whopping 17,966 mt year on year.

Main customers pursue re-export

Sultana exports from Iran totaled 36,388 mt worth USD 48.22 million in the first three months of this year. Much of the exports go to neighboring countries like Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey. Due to sanctions, Iranian companies can't trade efficiently with all potential buyers. Therefore, Turkey and the UAE only serve as stopovers for re-exports to other countries. Prices for Iranian raisins have increased slightly in the past two weeks.