Evaluating the flour industry's 2024 performance and 2025 targets, Doruk Flour Chairman Gürsel Erbap stated that Turkey, which has been the world leader in flour exports for 10 consecutive years, aims to achieve a record 4 million tons with the reopening of the Syrian market and the removal of import restrictions.

Un sektörünün 2024 performansını ve 2025 hedeflerini değerlendiren Doruk Un Yönetim Kurulu Başkanı Gürsel Erbap, Türkiye’nin 10 kez üst üste dünya birincisi olduğu un ihracatında, Suriye pazarı ve ithalat kısıtlamalarının kalkmasıyla 4 milyon tonluk rekor hedeflediğini ifade etti. 

Gürsel Erbap

Highlighting the strategic role of flour and flour-based products in food security as a staple food source, Doruk Flour Chairman and CEO Gürsel Erbap noted that flour is the first food item that comes to mind during global crises such as wars and pandemics. He emphasized that Turkey exports to approximately 160 countries and maintains its global leadership through the dedicated efforts of its industrialists. With the start of the harvest season in the Northern Hemisphere, he predicted an increase in raw material availability and a surge in export momentum.

Erbap, who also serves as the Chairman of the Grain Suppliers Association (HUBUDER), shared insights on current developments and future projections for the grain and flour sectors during an appearance on Ekotürk TV’s Sectoral Perspective program.

EXPORT TARGET: 3.5–4 MILLION TONS

Erbap noted that Turkey maintained its global leadership in flour exports for the 10th consecutive year in 2024. However, import restrictions led to an approximately 30% decline in exports. Although the first quarter of 2025 saw a 25–30% drop compared to the previous year, Erbap emphasized that these figures remain high compared to historical averages. He expressed optimism for a recovery in the remaining three quarters of 2025, aiming to match 2023 export levels. With 3.6 million tons exported in 2024, the target for 2025 is set at 3.5–4 million tons.

Improved relations with Syria following its regime change have revitalized exports. Erbap estimated that approximately 300,000 tons of flour will be exported to Syria in 2025. He highlighted that 45% of Turkey’s flour exports go to neighboring countries like Iraq and Syria, and the lifting of import restrictions as of March 19, 2025, will enhance competitiveness in global markets and offset losses. Additionally, the Euro’s appreciation against the dollar is expected to boost Turkey’s competitiveness in African markets, further supporting exports.

Erbap noted that Doruk Flour, restructured and established in 2015, exports to over 41 countries and produces value-added products. Operating with the vision of “building vast worlds with a single grain of wheat,” Erbap emphasized the importance of their seed production activities. Doruk Seed develops climate- and drought-resistant varieties of wheat, barley, corn, and sunflower using Anatolia’s heirloom seeds. Currently, they have five certified varieties (two bread wheat, two barley, one pasta wheat) and two silage corn varieties.

FLOUR-BASED PRODUCTS AND NEW INVESTMENTS

Doruk Flour offers value-added products across the farm-to-table chain, contributing to healthy diets with enriched, high-protein, low-carb, and high-fiber flour varieties. Erbap also highlighted investments in frozen flour-based products (bread, bagels, pastries), which are in demand both domestically and internationally. He noted that frozen products reduce waste, ensure hygiene, and provide economic benefits.

Erbap observed that consumer preferences are shifting toward frozen and ready-to-eat products due to high labor and energy costs, driving increased demand. Doruk Flour is conducting R&D on dough-based flour products that families can prepare at home, with plans to launch these healthy and economical products soon, offering an appealing alternative for consumers.

Addressing challenges in agricultural production, such as frost, drought, and rising costs, Erbap pointed out that Turkey’s small-scale agricultural lands (10–15 decares) reduce efficiency. He advocated for land consolidation, leasing unused lands, and technological investments to boost productivity. Collaboration between the public sector, private industry, and universities could enable large-scale farming, potentially doubling grain production. While support programs should be expanded, Erbap stressed that efficiency and collaboration are the ultimate solutions.

GROWING INTEREST FROM YOUTH AND WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE

Erbap expressed optimism about the future of the agricultural sector, noting a growing interest among young people, particularly women farmers. He encouraged youth to pursue employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in agriculture and livestock. Thanking his colleagues for their dedicated efforts in making Turkey the world leader in flour exports, Erbap set a goal of securing an 11th championship in 2025 and breaking past records.

Gürsel Erbap emphasized that, despite challenges in agriculture and the flour industry, Turkey’s geopolitical position, climate advantages, and skilled workforce offer immense potential. “Drawing strength from our past and looking to the future, we can achieve global firsts,” he said, delivering a message of solidarity to producers and farmers.