GAZYANTEP - The lentil, an source of export income for Turkey's southeast, may decline in yield dramatically due to lack of rain in the region.
The global food market is facing scarcity and a price hike due to drought, said Abdülkadir Cikmaz, head of the Southeast Anatolia Exporters' Unions (GAYB), also pointing to international speculators. "A price hike in rice and wheat is ongoing due to drought and international speculators," Cikmaz said last week. "I predict that prices will not drop despite the arrival of new products, as main purchasers abroad want to make contact in boiled and pounded wheat, lentil and pasta for June and July."
Waiting for the rain:
Lack of rainfall in the Southeast may lead to a severe distress in lentil production, said Cikmaz. "Drought has caused distress in Syria, which is now unable to sell lentil and cumin. We will also face problems unless it rains within a week or so."
Noting that the production of lentil, wheat, barley and cumin is crucial in the region, Cikmaz said, "Our region was in such a good condition last year that we nourished other regions. However, we are experiencing drought this year. Farmers in the region say that the crop will be saved if it rains."
Wheat also is facing a similar threat, he added.
The lentil is of great importance as a source of income, said Cikmaz, noting that 80 percent of the lentil produced in the region is exported to 30 countries, including Australia, Yemen and European countries. "If drought occurs, it will lead to exchange loss."
Bright situation for pistachio nut:
The situation for pistachio, another important source of income for the region, is currently good, he said. "Weather conditions are good [for pistachio nuts]. We can say that pistachios are saved unless frost occurs in a week."
Iran currently experiences a product loss by 65-70 percent, which is a very high rate, Cikmaz said. "Pistachio prices are rising in world markets. We are expecting a yield of over 100,000 tons this year."