Chairman Bora: Tokat deserves TMO General Directorate status

Lütfi Bora, Chairman of the Tokat Commodity Exchange, stated that Tokat deserves the status of General Directorate of the Turkish Grain Board (TMO) due to its annual grain production of 500-600 thousand tons and strategic location. Bora emphasized that Tokat's current potential requires a higher institutional structure compared to neighboring provinces like Amasya. He also evaluated the 2026 wheat purchase prices announced by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, noting that the base price of 16,500 TL for group 2 wheat is aligned with international markets. Bora said this price corresponds to approximately 360 USD per ton and protects domestic producers compared to the 220-250 USD level in the Black Sea basin. He added that this policy is rational for limiting food price increases in the fight against inflation.

In recent years, TMO grain purchase activities have been carried out at about 10 different points in Tokat. Bora appreciated the institution's determined stance despite the lack of licensed warehouses and some infrastructure deficiencies. However, considering the current production volume and geopolitical power, he stated that Tokat's attainment of General Directorate status is now a necessity. Bora called for everyone's support in lobbying efforts on this issue.

Bora assessed that the 2026 wheat purchase prices are reasonable for both producer and consumer balance. Referring to international market data, he emphasized that the price in Turkey is at an optimal level to protect domestic producers. He also said that this pricing policy has a rational counterpart in keeping food price increases minimal in the fight against inflation.

Drawing attention to Tokat's agricultural production power, Bora reminded that high value-added products such as poppy and hazelnut are produced especially in the Erbaa district. He noted that these products also fall within TMO's scope of activity. Bora stated that Tokat's agricultural potential should be crowned with a regional administrative structure.

Finally, Bora said that the issues of TMO General Directorate and wheat prices should be the main agenda items for Tokat. He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of these two issues for facilitating agricultural and livestock production.