Turkey Aims for a $1 Billion Milestone in Pasta Exports

Pasta, which pairs well with cheese, chicken, fish, tomatoes, minced meat, spices, and sauces, is one of Turkey's significant export products. In the first nine months of 2024, Turkey increased its pasta exports by 9%, from $606 million to $659 million, solidifying its position as the second-largest exporter globally. The President of the Aegean Cereals, Pulses, Oil Seeds and Products Exporters' Association, Muhammet Öztürk, highlighted that Turkey exported pasta to 155 countries during this period and possesses the potential to exceed $1 billion in pasta exports by 2025. Öztürk emphasized that over the last five years, Turkey's pasta exports have risen by 41%, from $577 million to $813 million, and stated, "By maintaining a similar trajectory, we could reach an export volume of $1.25 billion in the next five years. We have a strong presence worldwide, from Europe to the Far East, from America to Africa. The diversity in our pasta export markets encourages us to achieve our goals."

In pasta exports, Somalia ranks first with a demand of $93 million, while Venezuela requested $70 million. Exports to Ghana soared by 80% to $55 million, and Japan purchased $54.5 million worth of Turkish pasta, taking the fourth spot. Togo ranks fifth with $40 million, while exports to the US increased by 33% from $15 million to $20 million. Turkey also exported $16 million worth of pasta to China and $14 million to Cameroon, followed by Benin, Niger, and Iraq.