U.S. Agricultural Exports to Türkiye Surge to USD 1.9 Billion as Market Access Improves

Türkiye is strengthening its role as a key destination for U.S. agricultural exports, with shipments reaching USD 1.9 billion in FY2025, marking a 34% increase year-over-year and the fifth-highest level on record

Recent policy developments including the removal of retaliatory tariffs on several U.S. agricultural products  have improved price competitiveness and opened new commercial opportunities.

With a population exceeding 86 million and a growing middle class, Türkiye also serves as a strategic gateway to nearby regional markets including Ukraine, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Armenia.

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📊 Top U.S. Agricultural Exports to Türkiye

The strongest-performing U.S. agricultural exports in FY2025 were:

• Cotton: USD 665 million

• Soybeans: USD 441 million

• Tree Nuts: USD 431 million

Together, these three categories account for the majority of U.S. agricultural trade with Türkiye.

The United States currently holds approximately 8% market share, competing primarily with the European Union (23%), Russia (11%), Brazil (11%), and Ukraine (8%).

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🌰 Tree Nuts: Strong Consumer and Processing Demand

U.S. tree nut exports totaled USD 431 million in FY2025.

Almonds, pistachios, and walnuts remain the leading products. Türkiye ranks as the sixth-largest export destination for U.S. tree nuts.

Consumer demand remains strong, with pistachios widely used in confectionery production and almonds consumed largely as snack products. Regional markets collectively imported an estimated USD 443 million in tree nuts in FY2025, presenting additional export potential.

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🌾 Cotton: Exports Jump 92%

U.S. cotton exports to Türkiye surged to USD 665 million, up 92% year-over-year.

Türkiye is now the third-largest export destination for U.S. cotton. Domestic cotton production challenges are increasing reliance on imports.

The United States holds a 35% market share, competing closely with Brazil (34%).

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🌱 Soybeans: Record Export Performance

Soybean exports reached a record USD 411 million, up 188% from the previous year.

Türkiye’s animal feed industry — particularly poultry and aquaculture — is driving increased soybean imports. Brazil remains the top supplier with more than 40% market share, followed by Ukraine and the United States.

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🥃 Distilled Spirits and Wine: Premium Segment Growth

Türkiye imported a record USD 534 million in distilled spirits in FY2025.

The removal of retaliatory tariffs has improved prospects for U.S. whiskey, vodka, and liqueurs. Although the United Kingdom dominates the market with a 72% share, U.S. exporters are positioned to benefit from growing tourism and hospitality demand.

Regional markets, particularly Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, imported an estimated USD 228 million in spirits and wine, offering additional expansion opportunities.

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🐄 Livestock Genetics: High Potential Despite Restrictions

Live cattle exports remain restricted due to previous import bans, but Turkish importers continue to show strong interest in U.S. livestock.

The United States exported USD 7 million in bovine semen products to Türkiye in FY2025, making it the top supplier in this segment.

Central Asia and Ukraine also present long-term potential for cattle genetics as herd rebuilding and modernization continue.

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🌾 Rice and Pulses: Volatile but Opportunity-Driven

• Rice exports: USD 571,000 in FY2025, down sharply from the previous year due to shifting import patterns and phytosanitary requirements.

• Pulse exports: USD 5 million, up 64% year-over-year.

Türkiye imports pulses for both domestic consumption and re-export to Middle Eastern and African markets.

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🐟 Agricultural-Related Products: Seafood and Forest Products

Beyond core commodities:

• Seafood exports: USD 13 million (up 66%)

• Forest products: USD 72 million

Ukraine and Georgia also show strong seafood import demand, with U.S. shipments to Ukraine reaching USD 79 million.

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🌍 Regional Market Expansion

Combined U.S. agricultural exports to Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Armenia totaled USD 201 million, up 2% year-over-year.

Key drivers include:

• Rising GDP growth across Central Asia (projected 4–6%)

• Growing young populations in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

• Continued consumer demand in Ukraine despite ongoing conflict

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⚠️ Key Risks to Watch

While prospects are positive, exporters face several structural challenges:

• High Turkish inflation and currency volatility

• Agricultural biotechnology approval complexities

• Phytosanitary barriers and pesticide alignment with EU standards

• Higher MFN tariff rates averaging over 40% for agricultural goods

• Logistics disruptions tied to the Russia–Ukraine war

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🔎 CMB Outlook

Türkiye remains a strategically important and high-growth market for U.S. agricultural exports.

The removal of retaliatory tariffs, combined with strong export momentum in cotton, soybeans, and tree nuts, creates a favorable near-term environment.

At the same time, macroeconomic volatility and regulatory risks require careful market navigation.

Looking ahead, Türkiye’s dual role — as a large domestic consumer market and as a regional trade gateway — positions it as one of the most important agricultural expansion opportunities for U.S. exporters in Eurasia.