Turkish Raisins Market Update

Mundus Agri. Although growers are happy with rain and more rain has been forecast, drought is still an issue for sultanas.

Persistent concerns

Weather conditions are perfect in Manisa as the urgently required rain has finally arrived. The trouble is that the winter has been relatively dry and water storage levels have declined sharply, giving rise to concerns that there may not be enough water for the vineyards. Much will now depend on weather conditions in spring. Production and quality will be impacted if the weather is too dry in the next few weeks. As temperatures are presently normal for this time of year, any concerns over the vines coming out of winter dormancy too early have, fortunately, been dissipated.

Subdued trading in the run-up to Ramadan

Trading is still subdued, and only small volumes are being sold at the Izmir Stock Exchange. Traders are anticipating a quiet market in the next few weeks mainly because of Ramadan, which starts on 23 March and lasts until 21 April.

Exports still up

Exports are still up and running. Turkey exported 4,667 mt of seedless dried raisins in the week ending on 12 March. This is slightly up on the 4,621 mt registered in the same week last year. Total exports for the season are also up on last year and have climbed to 139,077 mt.