Rice Producers in Bafra Rebel: Fertilizer Prices Soar, Product Prices Plunge

CHP Samsun Deputy Murat Çan had the opportunity to directly observe the deepening economic problems of rice producers during his visit to the Bafra Ovası. Supplying approximately 15 percent of Turkey's total rice production alone, Bafra Ovası is on the verge of a major crisis due to recently rising input costs and falling product sales prices. During Çan's inspections in the wheat, red cabbage, and rice fields, farmers had the opportunity to convey their grievances directly to the deputy. Despite the fertile lands, producers are no longer smiling, and their anxiety about the future has reached its peak. Authorities emphasize that the situation is unsustainable, stressing that agricultural policies must be urgently revised.

One of the biggest complaints of the producers is the incredibly high increase in fertilizer prices since the beginning of the year. According to the information provided by a rice producer, fertilizer is applied twice in total to a 70-dönüm field, and approximately 2,600 kilograms of fertilizer are used. It is noted that it has become impossible to make a comparison even between last year and this year, with a price increase of 500 to 600 lira applied to the cheapest fertilizer bag alone since the beginning of the year. This situation means a massive increase of about 40 to 50 percent in fertilizer costs. Farmers state that continuing to produce in the face of such high input costs has become illogical.

One of the main reasons for the rising costs is the devastating impact of regional wars on agricultural input prices. Murat Çan pointed out that the conflicts in the nearby geography have seriously increased not only fertilizer but also fuel costs. Noting that İran is in a strategic position as a fertilizer supplier for the region, it was stated that disruptions in the logistics and supply chain are directly reflected on the Turkish farmer. Trade routes destroyed by war and fluctuations in energy prices have multiplied the expenses. These global and regional crises weigh heavily on local producers and threaten the continuity of agricultural production.

Producers state that in order not to incur losses and to stay afloat, rice must be sold at 45 to 50 lira per kilogram even under the worst conditions. However, unfortunately, while rice found buyers at the 36-37 lira band last year, prices fell to 25-27 lira by the end of the year. It is stated that an even more dramatic picture has emerged, with some farmers having to accept 19 lira to sell their products. It is obvious that these prices do not even cover production costs. Such low prices in a strategic production center like Bafra Ovası cause farmers to be on the verge of bankruptcy.

When the government's import policies are added to all these local troubles, the grievance of rice producers grows even more. According to Çan's statements, while 30 thousand tons of rice are waiting to be sold in the hands of farmers, it is claimed that the AKP government imported 100 thousand tons of rice in the first four months of 2026. Imported cheap products have reduced local rice prices from 37-38 lira levels to 24-25 lira, and even to 26 lira in some regions. It is stated that farmers are facing a difficult period with only two months left before the harvest, and it is demanded that permanent and sustainable agricultural policies be urgently implemented instead of temporary solutions. It is emphasized that, as the CHP, this grievance will be brought to the Parliament's agenda and the struggle will continue to implement support mechanisms.