Turkey is exploring illegal export options for hazelnuts to Iran due to the high import tax imposed by the Iranian government, which has resulted in only 113 tons of hazelnuts being sold in the past 5 years. Iran, with a population of 84 million and a high income group, has a demand for Turkish hazelnuts despite the high cost. The Ordu Commodity Exchange is considering opening up formal negotiations with Iranian investors to export Turkish hazelnuts and products, given the potential for profit and the high demand in Iran.