Turkey’s Fruit Prices Soar After April Frost, Apple Prices May Stay Above 100 TL

A devastating spring frost in April continues to drive up fruit prices across Turkey. While vegetable prices are falling, apple prices are expected to remain above 100 Turkish Liras, according to the head of the Turkish Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers Federation.

Spring Frost Crisis Drives Up Winter Fruit Prices

Following sharp price increases in summer fruits, Turkey is now bracing for more expensive winter fruits—especially apples. The April agricultural frost severely impacted fruit yields in regions like Kayseri, Niğde, and Karaman, leading to supply shortages and price hikes in both domestic and international markets.

According to Yüksel Tavşan, President of the Turkish Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers Federation, the damage was particularly severe for apples, one of Turkey’s most consumed winter fruits. “Apples are now bought at the orchard for 35–40 TL per kilogram. It looks like prices will remain high in the coming period,” Tavşan stated.

Experts now estimate that retail apple prices will not fall below 100 TL per kilogram in the coming months.

Mixed Outlook: Citrus Fruits Offer Some Hope

While apples have taken a hit, producers and wholesalers are more optimistic about citrus fruits. However, the frost also affected other popular fruits like cherries, grapes, peaches, apricots, plums, and strawberries, pushing their prices higher. Only watermelons and melons have seen price drops, thanks to ample supply.

Vegetable Prices Falling as New Crops Arrive

Contrary to the fruit market, vegetable prices are trending down. The arrival of new-season crops has lowered prices for items like potatoes and onions, with potato prices falling to as low as 9 TL per kilogram. Prices of tomatoes, eggplants, cucumbers, and peppers have also dropped by up to 30% on average.

Fruit Imports Soar, Exports Decline

The spike in fruit prices is driving up import demand. According to TÜİK data, fruit imports rose by 75% in June compared to the same month last year, reaching $148 million. Total fruit imports for the first half of 2024 have already surpassed $1 billion.

At the same time, exports have declined. In June, Turkey’s fruit exports dropped 10.3% year-on-year to $290.3 million. The cherry sector was particularly hit hard, with cherry exports plummeting 78% to $23.5 million, despite cherries being one of the country’s key export products.