Apricot harvest in Malatya continues at full speed

The apricot harvest is continuing in Malatya, which is registered by the European Union and known as the 'World apricot capital'. Apricot, one of the most important agricultural products of the city, creates significant economic value both in the domestic market and in exports. With the start of the harvest season, intense agricultural activity is experienced in the region. Malatya apricot, which is evaluated in two different ways as fresh and dried, continues to see high demand especially in foreign markets. Producers think that if a productive season is experienced this year, economic gain will increase.

The apricot harvest in Malatya started the other day and producers continue to work intensively in the fields. Especially in production areas such as Malatya Ticaret Borsası (MTB) Başkanı Ramazan Özcan Meydancık Mahallesi in Kale ilçesi, both farmers and exporters work simultaneously. Malatya Ticaret Borsası (MTB) Başkanı Ramazan Özcan visited the producers in the region and examined the harvest process on site. Özcan stated that with the start of the apricot harvest, a busy period is experienced in both production and export sides. Officials state that dried apricot exports will also start as of ağustos ayı.

Thanks to the cold chain infrastructure developed in recent years, fresh product export of Malatya apricot has also increased significantly. The produced apricots are quickly processed after harvest and sent to foreign markets. Thanks to this method, it is stated that while the freshness of the product is preserved, the export capacity also expands. Cold chain applications are of great importance especially in shipments directed to the European market. Sector representatives state that they expect to reach high export figures in both fresh and dried apricots this year.

Fresh apricots exported from Malatya are sent to many European countries, especially Almanya, Hollanda ve Fransa. Exporters state that there is a strong demand in the European market thanks to the quality and aroma of the product. The fact that apricot has a wide trade network with both its fresh and processed forms makes Malatya one of Turkey's most important agricultural export centers. According to experts, apricot production is not only an agricultural activity but also one of the most important income sources of the regional economy. Increasing employment and export mobility during the harvest season directly contribute to the city's economy.

Apricot, the locomotive of Malatya's economy, constitutes a major source of livelihood for the local people. The harvest period, which takes place regularly every year, provides job opportunities for thousands of people. Producers aim for a more efficient production with state supports and incentives. The fact that apricot has become a globally recognized brand makes Malatya's name known in the international arena. It is expected that apricot production will continue to increase in the coming years.