TMO Reopens Wheat Export: A New Chapter for Turkey's Agribusiness

Turkey's Grain Board (TMO) has granted permission for the export of bread wheat and wheat by‑products as of July 29, marking a strategic shift in its agribusiness export policy.

Reopening Export: Strategic Context

The announcement signals the end of the export moratorium that began in March 2025, indicating that domestic supply security has reached a sufficient level. The move aims to stabilize internal prices while boosting foreign‑currency earnings.

Domestic Market Dynamics and Stock Levels

■Domestic production: Up 3% in the last quarter.

■Current stocks: Over 1.2 million tonnes as of 2026.

■Consumption needs: Projected 1.5% increase for 2025‑2026.

Export Horizons: Target Markets and Risks

■Middle East: Saudi Arabia and the UAE show strong demand for high‑quality wheat.

■North Africa: Egypt and Tunisia seek alternatives amid price volatility.

■Risk factors: Regional geopolitical tensions, FX fluctuations, and global wheat price uncertainty.

Operational Guide for Market Participants

■Applications must be submitted through the Central Anatolia Exporters' Association (OAİB) General Secretariat.

■TMO will assess requests based on domestic supply conditions, ensuring a controlled export flow.

■Exporters should closely monitor customs procedures and quality standards to avoid delays.

Expert Commentary (Ufuk Tepe): The resumption of bread wheat exports could generate a new revenue stream for Turkey's agricultural trade while easing domestic price pressures. However, higher export volumes bring increased foreign‑exchange volatility and stock‑management challenges. The flexibility of policy measures and the robustness of TMO's oversight will be decisive for maintaining a sustainable balance.