Turkish Vine Fruit Market Update 01.07.24

Raw Material Quantity

From May 2024, the deliveries of material from growers to processors is at 172,000 metric tons. This represents a 47% decrease from last year's volume of 323,000 metric tons. With no pre-season expert field study or an official announcement of estimated volume to compare, we can make an estimated guess that the total registration will be around 195-200,000 MT for the current season.

Crop Exports

By the third week of June 2024, the export volume for the 2023 crop reached 183,000 metric tons, marking a 16.9% decline from the 214,000 metric tons exported during the same period in 2022. The average unit export price rose to $2,274 per metric ton, up from $1,695 per metric ton for the previous crop.

The top ten countries continue to account for 85% of the total export volume. The leading five importers of dried grapes from Turkey are the UK (46,300 MT), The Netherlands (24,800 MT), Germany (18,100 MT), Italy (13,400 MT), and Australia (12,600 MT). Notably, Australia saw a 40% increase in volume compared to the 2022 season, while the other top five countries experienced decreases ranging from 30% to 4%.

Price Levels and Market

Since the start of the year, raw material prices have been steadily rising, while the exchange rate has remained stable. This has influenced the final product prices. Following the religious holiday in Türkiye, market transactions have been limited, with some growers opting to wait.

This season has been exceptional in terms of volume and market behaviour. Alcohol producers are now dominating the market with direct purchases from growers, a role previously filled by dried grape processors. Although the projected 2024 crop volume is higher than the current crop (250,000 vs. 200,000 MT), the market remains tight due to a low expected carry-over figure. Traditionally, the new season starts at the levels where the old season ends.

From the Vineyards

June was unusually dry in the vineyards compared to previous years, despite some local rainfall. Türkiye

Leaf removal is being conducted to improve air circulation and channel more energy to the grapes by eliminating unnecessary leaves. This process, aimed at combating diseases such as Lobesia and Uncinula Necator, begins this month. With the development of leaves and bunches, irrigation is now active. Although the number of bunches per vine is lower than last year, partly due to high temperatures, the berries are larger than normal, showing signs of early development.

via Pagmat