Türkiye Opens Corn Import Quota to Stabilize Supply and Prices

In an effort to ensure supply-demand balance and maintain price stability in the corn market, Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade has announced the introduction of a tariff quota for up to 1 million tons of corn imports, valid until July 31, 2025.

According to the ministry’s official statement, the move comes in response to domestic production shortfalls, particularly after a significant decline in corn yields last year. The quota aims to supplement local supply without disrupting domestic agriculture and will expire before the harvest season begins on August 1, after which the 130% import tariff will continue to apply to protect Turkish producers.

“Our ministry, in coordination with relevant institutions, continues to adopt timely trade measures to safeguard supply security, prevent speculative pricing, and support producer-consumer welfare,” the statement read.

Why Corn? A Critical Input in Food and Feed

Corn plays a vital role in Türkiye’s food supply chain, being a key input for poultry and red meat production, as well as for animal feed and various processed food items. The quota was introduced following a formal request by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and amid rising global corn prices.

The aim is to preserve market stability until the 2025 harvest and minimize cost pressures on the livestock and food sectors.

Quota Restrictions and Oversight Mechanism

To ensure fair distribution of the import quota:

• A single importer may only bring in up to 8,000 tons per shipment.

• The same importer must wait 7 days before reapplying for another quota-based import.

The Ministry of Trade emphasized that it will closely monitor domestic market conditions in coordination with other relevant institutions, and adjust measures accordingly.

“The temporary nature of this tariff quota ensures that local farmers remain protected, while supply shortages are addressed in a controlled and timely manner,” the ministry noted.