Turkey, which exported over 3 million tons of flour last year, increased its exports compared to December 2024, reaching 216,000 tons in January. Flour exports to Syria rose by 41% in January.

Turkey has maintained its position as the world’s top flour exporter for 11 consecutive years. In 2024, the sector closed the year with 3.06 million tons of flour exports, generating revenue of $1.16 billion. Holding a 23% share of the global market, Turkey contributes to one out of every four flour packages worldwide.

Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy
Eurasia President of the International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM)

Although a decline in exports was observed due to the wheat import ban imposed on June 21, 2024, the sector managed to increase its exports in January compared to December 2024, reaching 216,000 tons. Despite a year-on-year decline, the sector has been expanding its focus beyond traditional markets. Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy, Eurasia President of the International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM), stated that the upward trend in flour exports to the Syrian market, which started in December 2024, continued into January.

Ulusoy noted, “Following the war, Syria’s demand for staple foods has increased. In 2023, Turkey exported 267,000 tons of flour to the region, which rose to 326,000 tons in 2024—an increase of nearly 40%. In December, the export of cereals, pulses, and oilseeds to Syria surged by 73% on an annual basis. Looking at January, we see a 41% year-on-year increase, with 32,000 tons of flour exported. Turkey has sufficient stockpiles to meet Syria’s growing demand for flour. Our goal this year is to export 400,000 tons of flour to Syria.”