Exports were very strong in September at 6,792 tons compared to 2,928 tons last year. *
Average price for whole apricots shipped in September was $7197 per ton FOB compared to $8815 last year. *
Official Turkish government statistics
We are hearing from retailers in Europe they are expecting sales volumes back at pre 2025 levels at current price levels, indeed we are seeing retailers that delisted apricots last year re listing them. If realised this would theoretically exceed Turkish crop supply given the small crop, lack of carryover and reduced acreage. Central Asian apricot supply is well down on last year and unlikely to be a significant factor outside its traditional markets in Asia and Russia.
Prices in Malatya remained steady for the past 2 months (since harvest). Seasonal retail tenders are underway and are expected to be concluded during the Sial next week and the rest of October.
The Lira decline is being carefully managed by the authorities to 1.2% per month in line with inflation. This is being offset to some extent by higher input and freight costs. Labour is particularly difficult to find and demands a significant premium over the minimum wage levels.