By Ceyda Caglayan and Gus Trompiz
Global Impact of Turkey’s Durum Wheat Exports
ISTANBUL/PARIS, March 28 (Reuters) – Over the years, Turkey has transformed from a net importer to a significant exporter of durum wheat, unexpectedly reshaping the global market. With an estimated 1.5 million metric tons of durum exported in the current season, Turkey stands to become the world’s second-largest exporter by 2023/24, bridging the gap left by Canada’s supply constraints resulting from repeated droughts. The International Grains Council has predicted that global durum stocks will hit a three-decade low this season, making Turkey’s contributions even more vital in maintaining stable prices for staple grains worldwide.
Rising Agricultural Success in Turkey
Through attractive pricing and strategic investments in irrigation, Turkey has witnessed a surge in durum wheat production, surpassing domestic demand by record margins. Last year’s bountiful crop, coupled with bolstered cultivation practices and a weakened Lira, has fueled Turkey’s competitiveness in the global market. The country’s production is expected to break records for the second consecutive year, exceeding 4 million tons, further solidifying its position as a key player in the durum wheat trade.
Positive Shift in Consumer Pricing and Preferences
Italian pasta producers, grappling with challenges in Canadian durum supply, have turned to Turkey for competitively priced durum. This shift has led to a significant drop in retail pasta prices in Italy, offering relief to consumers. Despite the enduring reputation of Canadian durum, Turkey’s quality offerings have gained recognition in the industry, influencing purchasing decisions and market dynamics.
Geopolitical Implications and Industry Resilience
In light of the European Union’s plans to impose tariffs on Russian grain following recent geopolitical events, Turkey’s role as a durum wheat exporter gains added significance. The market’s reliance on Turkish supply looks set to grow amid dwindling cultivation in traditional durum consumption regions like Europe and North Africa. Severe climatic conditions, such as droughts in Morocco and excessive rain in France, are further driving importers towards Turkey, Russia, and Kazakhstan as alternative sources of durum wheat.
Challenges and Contemplations
While Turkey’s ascent in durum wheat exports presents a transformative narrative, concerns persist regarding the sustainability of its role. Cautions over state-managed grain supply and climate vulnerabilities raise uncertainties about the country’s long-term position in the market. Recent export uncertainties, exemplified by the cancellation of export tenders, underscore the intricacies and challenges inherent in Turkey’s evolving role as a durum wheat exporter.
Main durum wheat exporters https://tmsnrt.rs/3TRn1Ya
Turkey and EU durum imports https://tmsnrt.rs/3PGBhR4
(Reporting by Gus Trompiz in Paris, Ceyda Caglayan in Istanbul and Giancarlo Navach in Milan; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
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