Turkey’s pistachio exports to China is expected to grow

At the recent 2024 China International Tree Nuts Conference, held in Hangzhou on Aug. 6–9, Yasir Aydin, vice president of Turkish nut exporter Aydin Kuruyemis, delivered a speech on Turkey’s pistachio sector and his expectations for the Chinese market. Turkey is a major producer and exporter of pistachios. According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Turkey was the world’s second-largest producer of the nut in 2023/24 with a total output of 160,000 metric tons, surpassing Iran (150,000 metric tons) and trailing only the United States (677,095 metric tons). Two popular types of pistachios grown in Turkey are Antep and Siirt. Antep pistachios are known for their intense flavor, while Siirt pistachios are typically larger. The pistachio kernels are classified into three main types depending on their color. Extra green pistachios are usually harvested in the first half of August while still immature, leading to a dark green color and a ...