TURKIYE – Turkish pasta exports have become a global powerhouse, reaching 166 countries and capturing markets across South America, Africa, and Japan.

In a recent statement, Aykut Göymen, President of the Turkish Pasta Industry Association, highlighted Türkiye’s prominent role in the global pasta industry, noting a remarkable 984,000 tons of exports in the first eight months of 2024.

Türkiye now ranks second worldwide in both pasta production and exports, closely following Italy.

Exports last year reached approximately 1.37 million tons, and the country aims to reach 1.5 million tons by the end of this year, setting an ambitious benchmark as demand for Turkish pasta rises internationally.

Despite European Union restrictions limiting Turkish pasta imports to a 20,000-ton quota, Türkiye has managed to build a robust export portfolio across numerous regions, underscoring the adaptability and appeal of its pasta products.

Göymen emphasized that Türkiye’s advantage lies in export volume and the inherent quality of Turkish pasta, predominantly made from durum wheat, a variety prized for its firmness and nutritional profile.

Durum wheat, a staple in Türkiye’s pasta production, benefits from Türkiye’s geographical position in Mesopotamia, known as the genetic heartland of this crop.

“Durum wheat is globally valued and usually commands a higher price than bread wheat,” Göymen explained. “

However, in Türkiye, the cost disparity between durum and bread wheat remains narrow, making it possible for Turkish consumers to enjoy premium pasta made from durum wheat.

This positioning has also drawn interest from international buyers, who value Türkiye’s proximity to major trade routes, allowing for efficient logistics and consistent quality standards.

Further strengthening its global footprint, Türkiye has actively championed the recognition of Oct. 25 as World Pasta Day, a significant milestone underscoring the country’s commitment to the industry.

This annual celebration, which began through Türkiye’s initiatives, has been embraced globally, adding cultural value to the product and highlighting the country’s leadership.

Göymen announced that Türkiye will host World Pasta Day in 2025, a move that is expected to attract investors and create additional opportunities for collaboration and industry growth within the region.

While Türkiye is a leader in production and exports, domestic pasta consumption remains relatively low at around 8 kilograms per person annually.

 In comparison, Italy’s per capita consumption stands at 21 kilograms, while Greece consumes 17 kilograms per person.

Göymen sees this as a growth opportunity for Türkiye, noting that pasta consumption is likely to increase over time as domestic preferences evolve.

Additionally, in recent years, Turkish pasta manufacturers have invested significantly in technological advancements, allowing the industry to scale production without compromising on quality, he noted.

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