Turkey’s wheat flour exports fell sharply in the first six months of 2025, with both volume and value recording double-digit declines. Despite maintaining its position as the world’s leading flour exporter, Turkey is facing significant headwinds in global markets, according to the latest trade report released by the Turkish Flour Industrialists’ Federation (TUSAF).
The Turkish Flour Industrialists’ Federation (TUSAF) has published its first comprehensive Monthly Sectoral Trade Report, highlighting key dynamics in production, imports, exports, and global market trends. The Federation underscored the importance of transparent and reliable data for informed decision-making, announcing that it will henceforth provide regular updates on foreign trade performance.
According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute’s Special Trade System, Turkey exported 1.11 million tons of wheat flour between January and June 2025, down from 1.79 million tons in the same period last year. Export revenues fell even more steeply, declining 36.6% year-on-year to USD 428 million. Although the average export price rose to USD 385 per ton, compared to USD 368 per ton a year earlier, the higher unit values failed to offset the sharp fall in volumes.
KEY FLOUR EXPORT MARKETS
Iraq remained Turkey’s largest flour market, though shipments to the country dropped 46.2% in value terms. In contrast, exports to Syria surged by 69.3%, underlining shifting trade dynamics in the region. Other notable destinations for Turkish flour included Somalia, Ghana, Cuba, Indonesia, Venezuela, and Sierra Leone.
From a regional perspective, Near and Middle Eastern countries in Asia accounted for the largest share of exports, followed by African markets. However, declines were registered across nearly all regions compared to last year. Despite these challenges, Turkey continues to hold its position as the world’s leading wheat flour exporter.
In the same six-month period, Turkey imported 1.61 million tons of milling wheat, all under the Inward Processing Regime (DIR). Import expenditures amounted to USD 412 million, with an average price of USD 256 per ton. Russia was the leading supplier, while Ukraine, Romania, Moldova, Serbia, and Kazakhstan also featured among Turkey’s key sources. Wheat prices remained under pressure due to abundant supply in the Northern Hemisphere, though producers’ reluctance to sell limited further downward movement.
Mesut Çakmak
Commenting on the report, TUSAF Chairman Mehmet Mesut Çakmak stressed the critical importance of consistent and accurate data: “At TUSAF, we believe that systematic monitoring of sectoral data is the cornerstone of sound decision-making. Statistics are not merely numbers; they are indispensable tools for understanding the economic environment, developing strategies for the future, and working collectively toward shared goals. Without data, there can be no management. With our monthly reports, we aim to shed continuous light on the current state of the industry.”