Ege's Seafood and Animal By-Products Export Surpasses $2.1 Billion

The Aegean region has hit a record level in seafood and animal by-products exports.

Aegean Export Surge

The Aegean Seafood and Animal By-Products Exporters Association lifted export volumes by 13.5% over the past year, reaching $2.1 billion.

Sectoral Drivers and Market Expansion

■Employment: The export rise translates into a 4.2% increase in regional employment.

■Market Share: The European Union accounts for 58% of total exports, while the Middle East and Asia hold 22% and 15%, respectively.

■Product Mix: In addition to fish, squid and shrimp, dairy and meat products have been added to the export basket.

Exchange Rates and Competitive Edge

■USD‑TRY: The Turkish lira’s 3% depreciation over the last three months has boosted price competitiveness for exporters.

■Customs Duties: The EU‑Turkey free trade agreement applies 0% tariffs, further encouraging export growth.

Markets view the Aegean region’s export expansion as a sustainable driver, backed by supply‑chain integration and favorable exchange‑rate dynamics. The surge in EU demand is seen as a new catalyst for Turkey’s food trade balance. Nevertheless, potential shifts in global customs regulations and raw‑material price volatility could temper long‑term growth expectations.