Blog

Importing goods can be a complicated and daunting task for many. After all, the process involves many different steps, risks, laws, and regulations to consider. While choosing the products to import and choosing the right suppliers are quite important, choosing the right payment option is also crucial for a safe and risk-free process. 

There will always be risks since there are many variables to consider. However, it is in your hands to minimize these risks as much as possible. One of the important ways of minimizing risks is choosing a safe payment method. Importing a product from a different country requires you to be more thoughtful about the payment. It is not as simple as buying a product online. You need to consider the loading of the goods, the shipment process, possible damages that can occur and other problems that may arise during the process. 

Choosing the right payment option allows you to be safe in the face of possible problems. Certain payment options will protect you from financial losses. Therefore, you need to take the time to choose the perfect payment option for your situation. We have prepared this guide to help you make safe international payments for your imports. Let us take a deeper look into the payment options you can consider.

Risks to Consider Before Deciding on the Payment Method

There are certain risks involved that you need to be aware of and consider before making a final decision as to the payment method. The risks involved in the process will allow you to understand the losses you might experience and take precautions accordingly. We can examine the risks under three main headings: financial, commercial and political risks. 

• Financial risks: During the transfer of money, you may come across problems. Since most transactions are done in foreign currencies, there is always a possibility of the bank not having enough foreign currency to make the payment. This problem might occur in third-world countries. The payment can only be done once they have enough foreign currency which means the payment might be delayed. 
• Commercial risks: Trade is a mutual transaction. Therefore, importers run the risk of not receiving the products despite making the payment. On the other hand, they might receive faulty or damaged products. Similarly, the exporters run the risk of not being paid despite shipping the products to the buyer. 
• Political risks: The political stability of the country you will be importing from is quite important. Any uprising, instability, or -the worst case scenario- war can make any trade relations impossible. Due to such political events, you might suffer financial losses.

Choosing the Safest Payment Options

After acknowledging the risks that are involved in the import process, you can start thinking about payment options. While each payment method has its advantages and disadvantages, it is better to choose one based on your situation. To help you choose the safest international payment option, we have listed the most frequently used methods in international trade. These payment methods are considered to be the safest for an importer. Read on to decide which one fits you the best. 

Letter of Credit

Letter of Credit, also known as LC, is considered to be the safest payment option. This is because the Letter of Credit is designed to protect both the buyer and the seller during the process. The Letter of Credit is a document issued by a bank that guarantees the exporter will be paid once the products arrive as intended. 

In this type of agreement, the bank is responsible for the payment on behalf of the importer. Once the exporter fulfills their requirements as it was stated in the agreement, the bank verifies it and makes the payment. Therefore, the Letter of Credit protects the buyer. If the buyer doesn’t receive the goods as agreed, the payment is not made to the exporter. If you want to learn more about the Letter of Credit, you can read a detailed article by clicking here.

Documentary Collections

Documentary collection is another international payment method that creates a balance between importers and exporters. The payment process takes place between the banks of both parties. In the process, the exporter starts the shipping process and sends out all the necessary documents to the importer. On the other hand, the importer gives authority to the bank to make the payment once the documents are confirmed. Confirmed documents are sent to the importer to claim. 

This type of payment exposes both parties to less risk. The exporter sends the goods knowing that the payment is secured and the importer pays after confirming the documents. Documentary Collections is known to take less time to set up and cost less than Letter of Credit. However, it should be noted that this payment method is focused on the documents and not goods directly. 

Open Account

Open Account is a payment method that is favorable for the importer. Because according to this method, the seller delivers the goods to the buyer without being paid. The payment is done after a certain time on an agreed date. The agreed date can be anywhere from 30 days to 90 days after delivery. 

This can be beneficial for the importer in many ways. For example, before the payment date, the buyer can start selling the goods. On a different note, the buyer doesn’t need working capital as they don’t have to make the payment as soon as the goods arrive. Thus, an open account is quite liked among importers due to its flexibility. While this method is not exactly favorable for exporters, the sellers who want to build a network of trust and attract more customers might prefer open account payment. 

Consignment

Consignment is another payment method that favors importers. According to this payment method, the exporter delivers the products to the importer. However, the importer doesn’t make a payment until they sell all the goods. This allows the importer to make the payment for imported goods much easier. 

However, it should be noted that this type of payment is extremely risky for exporters. After the shipment, the exporter remains to be the owner of the products. This means that if any damage occurs, it is a loss of the exporter and not the importer. Therefore, this method is rarely used and it is usually preferred by exporters with third-party agents or distributors in other countries.

Safe Import Process with Turkish Goods

Part of making a safe payment in international trade is working with professionals. Turkish Goods has a professional team that takes care of the entire import process once you choose the products you wish to import from Turkey. Turkish Goods also offers the safest payment methods such as the Letter of Credit to make the buyers feel secure every step of the way. No matter where you are in the world, you can safely import products from Turkey via Turkish Goods. 

The autumn season may adversely affect the body's resistance with sudden drops in degrees after the summer temperatures.  It is important to protect our body's resistance in autumn and to enter the winter months much healthier and stronger.  For a healthy immune system, it is necessary to obtain the vitamins and minerals that the body needs. For these reasons, to obtain vitamins and minerals naturally, it is very important to consume fresh vegetables produced in their season.

Turkey is a country that produces hundreds of types of vegetables thanks to its rich and fertile soil. Turkey is one of the world's leading exporters in vegetable production and export. In 2021, Turkey earned 875.7 million dollars worth of foreign exchange income from its vegetable exports. Russia, Germany, Iraq, Ukraine, and Romania are among the countries with the highest demand for vegetables. So, what are the best fresh autumn vegetables produced and exported in Turkey? 

Cabbage

Cabbage is a vegetable in the cruciferous family and is like a natural medicine with its health benefits. It is also a functional vegetable in terms of consumption. Optionally, it can be consumed raw, pickled, in soup, or stuffed.

Cabbage is a vegetable grown in cold regions and the cities with the highest cabbage production in Turkey are Niğde, Artvin, Düzce, and Ordu. In 2021, only Niğde produced approximately 140 thousand tons of cabbage. Also, in the same year, Niğde exported cabbage to Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Leek

Leek is a vegetable that is a miracle for the immune system, especially due to the rich minerals and vitamins it contains.

It is generally grown in Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir and Bursa in Turkey. Leek exports from Turkey to the EU reached 9 thousand 578 tons in 2021. The foreign exchange income obtained from exports is 5 million 185 dollars. In 2021, the export rate of leeks increased by about five cards compared to the previous year, while the amount of foreign currency obtained increased by 378%.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower, which is one of the most consumed vegetables in autumn, is very beneficial for the digestive system. Thanks to its high fiber content, it also supports natural weight loss. It has a large production area in Turkey. Cauliflower is usually grown in the Mediterranean and Central Black Sea Regions. 

Turkey is among the leading countries in cauliflower production. ın 2021, Turkey exported 7,736 tons of cauliflower, and revenue generated 4 million 438 thousand 324 dollars in foreign currency. Cauliflower production has increased by 182% compared to 2020. The leading countries in cauliflower export are Russia and the USA.

Carrot

Carrot is an extremely tasty and nutritious vegetable. It is a source of potassium and antioxidants It is a very important vegetable for the immune system. 85% to 95% of a carrot consists of water. There are different colors, varieties, and sizes of carrots. Although each different type of carrot has its own unique flavor, carrots are a vegetable that adds flavor to salads, foods, and desserts.

Carrots are mostly grown in the Mediterranean and Central Anatolia regions of Turkey. According to the data shared by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in 2021, 30,893 tons of carrots grown in Turkey are exported from Konya, and approximately 130,000 tons from Mersin, İskenderun, and Edirne.  About 65% of Turkey's carrot export is supplied from Konya. Among the countries where carrots are exported from Turkey, there are Middle Eastern Countries, Georgia, Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece.

Spinach

Spinach is a vegetable rich in protein and vitamins and is used as a supplement in the treatment of many diseases. In particular, it is recommended to consume spinach against the flu with the arrival of cold weather.

Turkey is among the top five countries in spinach production and export. Spinach produced in Turkey is exported all over the world. The most spinach production in Turkey is made in Ankara, Samsun, Manisa, Bursa, Tokat, Sakarya, Mersin, Adana, Balıkesir, Osmaniye provinces and especially in İzmir. According to the data shared by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, 229,793 tons of spinach were produced in Turkey in 2022. 

Radish

Radish is a vegetable known for its numerous benefits among people. So much so that there is even a saying in Turkish society, ‘like a radish’. In order to be prepared for the cold winter months, it is beneficial to consume radish, the health store of the autumn season.

Radish production in Turkey is carried out in the Mediterranean Region. An important part of radish cultivation takes place in Osmaniye. Radish is a vegetable whose export volume increases from year to year in Turkey.

Celery

Celery is a rich mineral and beneficial vegetable in the parsley family. It is an important vegetable, especially for the digestive system. Celery is an autumn vegetable as it grows in warm and cool weather. 

Celery is mostly grown in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions of Turkey. According to the data announced in 2022, İzmir was the province that produced and exported the most celery. According to the same data, İzmir supplies 45% of Turkey's total celery production with 23 thousand tons of celery.

Broccoli

Broccoli, the most consumed vegetable in the autumn and winter months, reduces the risk of catching many diseases, especially cancer. Turkey continues to increase its production and export rates every year for broccoli production and export. The country with the highest broccoli export from Turkey is the USA. Also, the USA is particularly demanding of organic broccoli. In Turkey, broccoli is produced especially in İzmir, Bursa, Akşehir, Niğde, Konya and Eskişehir.

Import the Best Quality and Healthy Autumn Vegetables from Turkish Goods

Turkish Goods has one of the largest supplier databases in Turkey. It ensures that your import process is unproblematic and convenient by offering the most ideal price offer for the products you want to import from Turkey. If you want to import the best quality healthy autumn vegetables from Turkey, click here to contact Turkish Goods' expert team.

Shipping companies are referred to as companies that specialize in transporting goods locally and worldwide. Companies that are meticulous about transportation and have quality transportation elements are preferred by almost everyone. Although the types of shipping companies are not very well known, they are an important detail within the scope of your business. Technologically well-equipped companies with experienced teams in transporting your desired goods offer a more unique service.

You should choose the transportation providers in accordance with your business portfolio, particularly if you are learning new information about starting a business and product delivery. Shipping companies and different cargo kinds are also significant in this regard. Moreover, every company has different policies, rules, and philosophies when it comes to shipping and air freight. They act according to these elements, improve their services, and are classified accordingly.

What Do Shipping Companies Do?

We can define the general duties of shipping companies as taking orders and delivering products. However, although it is summarized in two stages, the processes are more complex. Especially when it comes to international transport companies, the business philosophy we mentioned earlier comes into play. In terms of business ethics, companies perform transportation services on a framework. We can describe this process framework in five steps.

1. Main Mission: Transport Services

Knowledge of freight methods comes into play during the service phase of shipping companies. Full-service shipping companies should be familiar with each of these methods. They need to know the processes of road, rail, ocean, and air freight.

The road, which is more typical within national borders, is preferred for more complex loads. The railway is also preferred when it comes to more local and mass transportation. In addition to these, in relation to international cargoes, of course, sea freight is preferred. Air freight is available for cargoes that need to arrive in a shorter time.

In short, knowing these methods and having the necessary tools for use is one of the duties of shipping companies.

2. Digital Warehousing

We can say digital storage is the second stage. With technology, it is now easy to store products and keep track of each product. However, a very meticulous work process is required when considering the deterioration of technological devices or the contamination of viruses. Transport companies must have a full data storage system for this. Experienced employees who can manage this system and inventory records are services that transportation companies should provide.

3. Process Management

A warehouse management system is in third place. Every quality and experienced transportation company should have a warehouse management system. And, of course, the capacity to manage all processes is also important.

Correct entries, batch numbers, expiration dates, production dates, purchase order tracking, serial numbers, and many more are important to both shipping companies and buyers. Therefore, companies have to be able to manage the process.

4. Warehouse Fulfillment

Significantly less space is needed if third-party logistics experts are given control of the storage of finished goods or raw materials on their property rather than at the manufacturer's or retailer's premises. An obvious sign of skill is the presence of warehouse specialists who manage goods and make the best use of the available space. Businesses who can keep goods in storage for a while and load them into cars when the moment is right are in the lead.

Because of this, shipping corporations are heavily involved in the warehouse security industry.

5. Forwarding and Delivery Processes

Naturally, they are also in charge of the product loading and delivery procedures. More specifically, it is important for businesses with the designation of "shipping companies" to complete this stage independently without the aid of middlemen. They give out a positive impression of business knowledge.

Types of International Transport

While describing the shipping companies, it is impossible not to mention the types of international transportation. Because it is the types of transport and the stages of service they provide to customers that determine a certain quality.

If the customer knows the types of transportation in terms of logistics while researching the subject of international transportation, he can analyze which of them he needs. Or it can compare the advantage of the shipping company according to the type.

Multimodal Transport

Multimodal transportation, which is among the international transportation types, is the name given to the transportation type in which at least two different logistics services are used. In multimodal transportation type, the contract and documents are delivered by a single responsible person. In this type of transportation, bulk cargo is mostly carried. Two different modes of transport can be specified. In this transportation, the necessary method is determined by interviewing the companies.

Intermodal Transport

Intermodal transport, which is the opposite of multimodal transport; is a method of transporting the load to more than one point with more than one transportation model without any action on the load while changing the transportation modes. While changing the container of the cargo in multimodal transportation, the warehouse where the cargo is located is not changed, even if different ways are used in this transportation.

Combined Transport

The term "combined transportation" refers to a type of logistics in which at least two separate modes of transportation are used to transfer the units that serve as carriers in the movement of goods across international borders.

Unimodal Transport

Unimodal transportation, which is another type of transportation, is the name given to the transportation of products, services, and goods by selecting only one transportation type. In other words, the transportation process is completed with only one sea, air, or highway method. The biggest advantage is that the costs are less.

Door to Door Transport

The term "door-to-door transportation" refers to a delivery technique where a product, good, or service is delivered to the customer rapidly using at least two different ways of delivery.

As a result, the availability of these types of logistics transportation, the execution processes of the transactions, and many other issues are the stages that provide advantages to the type of transportation companies. Knowledge always gives an advantage. While customers expect the products to be transported in suitable conditions, they also want to have full information about the shipping company to take advantage of opportunities.

There are transport modes determined according to definite rules, regulations, and laws in international commerce. Transport modes are a substantial issue between the buyer and the seller. Commerce does not take place properly without an agreement or definite rules.

Some rules determine how goods will be transported in international trade. These include where the delivery will be made, who will pay for costs, insurance, and transport contracts. Briefly, to ensure delivery in international trade, the obligations of the buyer and seller must be clearly defined. The most accurate information on this issue is available at the International Chamber of Commerce. The ICC publishes a glossary of terms containing all kinds of details about the transactions in international trade.

What are Incoterms?

Incoterms are known as International Commercial Terms. Incoterms are the most important rules of international commercial law. Also,  legal authorities and governments accept these rules, and are legally binding. ICC publishes these rules regularly and updates and explains all information about international commerce.  

The International Chamber of Commerce published the first Incoterms in 1936. However, Incoterms were also updated by the ICC in line with the developments in international commerce. ICC published the last updated Incoterms in 2020. Incoterms are closely related to all parties that are a part of international trade. It is an essential resource for understanding all changes related to international trade and how global supply chains should be implemented. Also, Incoterm states the responsibilities of the buyer and seller and the cost and risk of transactions. 

Incoterms explain the conditions of sale that both the seller and the buyer must agree upon during transactions in international trade. Besides, the same rules do not apply to all types of transport. Some rules cover a particular type of transport. Such as, while all modes of transportation include FCA, CPT, and CIP,  maritime transportation includes FAS, FOB, and CFR. Also, free carriers are one of the modes of transportation in international commerce. Let's take a look at all the details of Free Carrier. 

What is a Free Carrier?

In the FCA mode of transport, the seller must deliver the shipment to the 'Named Place'. Under the FCA agreements, the buyer determines where the goods will reach. Free Carrier is the seller's delivery of the goods to the designated port. The seller carries out the process of loading the goods and the operations before it. On the other hand, the buyer handles all transactions that occur as a result of loading the goods.

FCA can be used for all modes of transport, including road, sea, rail, and air transport. The most prominent advantage of this type of transportation for the buyer is that it is flexible and more profitable in transportation costs. In FCA, when the goods reach the point of export, all responsibility and risk belong to the buyer. At this stage, the seller is in an advantageous position. Because the process after the export of particular products can be risky and problematic.

Buyer and Seller Responsibilities

The buyer and seller have specific responsibilities under the FCA agreement.

Buyer's Responsibilities

The responsibility passes to the buyer after the goods reach the named place and after leaving the customs. The buyer's responsibilities are as follows:

• Origin Terminal Charges: The buyers are responsible for the transportation terminal-related expenses when loading the cargo on the ship, plane, truck, etc.  during the transportation process,

• Loading in Carriage: Shipping lines demand to charge an amount for loading the goods onto the means of transport. Buyers are responsible for covering this amount.

• Carriage Charges: The buyers are responsible for the charges of freight from the port of departure to the port of destination of the goods.

• Insurance: Insurance is not obligatory. But insurance is at the buyer's discretion.

• Destination Terminal Charges: When the products arrive at the destination port, there are procedures related to the official import process. Such as all terminal charges that cover unloading, transferring, and holding the load. The buyer is responsible for covering these costs.

• Delivery to Destination: The buyers are responsible for all charges in the process of transporting the goods from the port of departure to the port of destination.

• Unloading at Destination: All charges of unloading the goods at the determined point are the responsibility of the buyer.

• Taxes and other Customs Clearance: All costs and responsibilities related to the importation of goods belong to the buyer. Customs authorities carry out certain inspections during the import process. Costs may arise as a result of these inspections. The buyer is responsible for covering the costs.

Seller’s Responsibilities

Within the framework of the FCA agreement, the seller is obliged to carry out the entire export process of the products they sell. After the goods are loaded on the ship, truck, or train, the responsibility now belongs to the buyer. However, until this process, the seller has defined responsibilities. These are:

• Export Packaging: Goods must be packaged for export to happen. Some governments have different rules about how products should be exported. Sellers must follow these determined rules. For example, it could be a specific mark on the packaging or a different type of packaging. The seller is obliged to carry out the packaging process in accordance with all regulations.

• Loading Charges: The seller carries out the process of loading the goods to the carrier for the first time. And also the seller covers the costs of all these transactions.

• Delivery to Place: The seller is responsible for all the processes from the point of origin to the destination. The seller bears all of the expenses in these processes.

• Taxes: The seller is in charge of the entire export process and of all costs. For example, customs inspection, a special permit for the export of goods, and inspection before shipment, etc.

All responsibilities mentioned above within the framework of the FCA agreement belong to the seller and the buyer. If the seller or buyer does not fulfill any of these responsibilities, it will be a breach of contract. Finally, FCA is a multimodal transport agreement.  FCA provides advantages to both the buyer and the seller.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative has been a popular topic of discussion in global trade. With new projects and investments taking place, the Belt and Road Initiative seems to be going strong. While BRI offers a completely new look to global trade by allowing new routes and changing the industry norms, it also reshapes the countries’ position in the global arena when it comes to trade. 

Turkey is one of the focal countries that contribute to the project. With its strategic location and collaboration with China, Turkey is attracting attention. The strengthening relations between Turkey and China highlight the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative and Turkey’s position within the project. In this article, we are exploring the effect of China’s Belt and Road Initiative on Turkey. Read on to understand BRI as well as its importance for China, Turkey and global trade. 

What is Belt and Road Initiative?

China’s Belt and Road Initiative is essentially an infrastructure project that was launched in 2013 by the president of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping. The project’s aim is to connect Asia and Europe. This connection will increase trade activities and exhilarate economic growth by improving the regional alliance. It will also broaden China’s influence and power in the world. 

Inspired by the Silk Road

Belt and Road Initiative was inspired by the Silk Road. The Silk Road is a name given to a network of routes that were used during the ruling of the Han Dynasty of China. The route is given such a name due to the silk that was being carried and traded. At the time, silk was exclusively produced in China. These roads were used by traders for a long period of time, approximately more than 1500 years. The trade route was in use from 130 BCE till 1453. 

The Silk Road was an important trade route, reaching 6,400 kilometers between East and West. When examined in detail, these trade routes connected Europe, East Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and East. After the rise of the Ottoman Empire, especially with the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the trade route between East and West was ruptured. Thus, traders started to seek new routes to continue trade relations.

Basic Principles of Belt and Road Initiative

Belt and Road Initiative follows basic principles. These principles are fundamental in defining and understanding the project’s scope as well as what it aims to achieve. These basic principles can be listed under five headings.

• Mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty
• Mutual non-aggression
• Peaceful coexistence
• Mutual non-interference in internal affairs
• Mutual benefit and equality

Based on these principles, Belt and Road Initiative aims for cooperation while building a community that shares similar interests and principles. When these principles are considered, there are certain expectations from countries that are involved in the project. These countries are expected to:

• promote actions that will create mutual benefit and security
• work on improving the infrastructure in their region
• work on building an efficient and safe network across land, sea and air
• improve economic ties and deepen political trust 
• establish free trade areas that are of high standards
• improve investment and trade facilitation
• encourage mutual understanding and peace between countries

The Scope of Belt and Road Initiative

Belt and Road Initiative has two stages or corridors at its basis. One of them is referred to as the overland “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the other as the “Maritime Silk Road.” These two distinctive routes are collectively regarded as the “Belt and Road Initiative.” At its core, the project’s plan encapsulated a network of highways, railways, streamlined border crossings as well as energy pipelines. 

However, this is only the physical infrastructure that was planned to be established within the scope of the project. In addition to the infrastructural improvements, the project aims to establish fifty special economic zones. The project also foresees the improvement of ports along the route to expand maritime trade traffic.  

Currently, more than 60 countries have either joined the projects or showed interest in the projects within the scope of BRI. The largest project within the BRI seems to be China-Pakistan Economic Corridor which connects Pakistan’s Gwadar Port to China. This project is estimated to cost $60 billion. China is known to have already spent approximately $200 billion for the BRI. Overall expenses for the BRI are estimated to reach $1.2-$1.3 trillion by 2027. 

What Will China Achieve with BRI?

China’s main motivation behind the Belt and Road Initiative seems to be economic as well as geopolitical. President Xi is known for his vision to make China a more assertive country. However, that is not the only motivation behind the idea. In recent years, China and the United States’ relations have not been as stable as they used to be. This instability between the two countries negatively affected trade relations and slowed growth. After facing such a situation, China had to find alternative ways to grow, maintain and even improve its trade. This led the country to open new markets. 

Considering the motivation behind BRI, it is safe to say that China is creating new export markets while also creating investment opportunities. This will in turn improve China’s economy by positively affecting the incomes as well as domestic consumption. On a larger scale, China seeks to dominate the global trade arena by shaping international standards. 

What is Turkey’s Role in Belt and Road Initiative?

One of the routes within the Belt and Road Initiative, which is referred to as the “Silk Road Economic Belt,” follows the route that is historically known as the Silk Road. This road follows the route through Central Asia, Iran, Turkey and Europe. While the other route named the “Maritime Silk Road” follows the South China Sea, Malacca Strait, Indian Ocean, Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. There is one country both roads have in common and that is Turkey. This assigns Turkey a fundamental role in the project. 

Being aware of its position within the Belt and Road Initiative Turkey also established a new initiative called the “Middle Corridor.” Middle Corridor essentially encompasses establishing a railroad network throughout the region. The network follows the route from Turkey to Central Asia. Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway is a part of this project and the completion of the BTK railway as well as the improvements made on other railway systems is seen as a prerequisite for the completion of the overall project. Thus, the railway systems in Turkey will ensure high-speed transportation.

By establishing this railroad network, Turkey aims to create prosperity, strengthen its position in the region and create a connection between Europe and Asia. This route will help expand the trade markets which will improve the economy further and allow Turkey to contribute to the regional cooperation in Eurasia. 

Cooperation Between Turkey and China

As a part of the Belt and Road Initiative, China has been increasing its investments in Turkey, especially in the areas of energy and mining. Since BRI places importance on the joint effort of countries on improving infrastructures and creating mutual benefit, investing to improve the infrastructure in the fundamental regions is expected. In light of this information, China has been cooperating with Turkey in terms of finances since 2015. In fact, there is a special agreement made between Turkish and Chinese central banks. According to this agreement, Turkish lira and Chinese yuan are used in transactions instead of dollars and euros.

The Future of Global Trade

As new projects take place within the scope of the Belt and Road Initiatives, international trade principles and practices will transform. Turkey plays an important role in this transformation due to its strategic location that connects Asia and Europe by air, sea and land. Having such a crucial geographical location and establishing new projects as a part of the BRI, Turkey’s role in international trade will become stronger.

With BRI, trade processes will become much easier and faster by giving the exporters and importers alternative routes. Improvements such as tariff reductions, deeper trade agreements, border efficiency and better market access will increase trade further. 

Additionally, research on the subject reveals that the Belt and Road Initiative will affect international trade by significantly reducing the shipment time as well as the costs of trade. The shipment time is expected to reduce by 1.2%-2.5% while trade costs are expected to decrease by 1.1%-2.2%.

Autumn fruits are among the most consumed fruits in terms of both their excellent taste and health benefits. Every product consumed in its season is more beneficial and more delicious. Turkey has critical importance in exporting and being one of the leading countries in producing fresh fruits and vegetables. All kinds of autumn fruits, from delicious apples to sour quinces, are produced in Turkey.

Turkish products are highly preferred worldwide where the concept of organic gains more importance. So, which fruits are in the foreground in the autumn season in Turkey? In which region are they produced? What are the most exported autumn fruits?

What Are the Autumn Fruits Grown in Turkey?

Turkey has a success that goes beyond borders in fresh fruit and vegetable cultivation. It has made its reputation overseas, especially with its quality crops grown according to the season. Thanks to its fertile lands surrounded by ideal climate conditions, agriculture is widespread all over Turkey. Primarily its delicious fruits are used in world cuisines.

Turkey produces a wide variety of fruits, including many exotic varieties. People wish to boost their immune system even more in the fall winds. Turkish fall fruits are expertly produced and exported, both organic and delicious. Although there are many types, the following are the most well-known fall fruits:

Apple

Approximately 460 types of apples are produced in Turkey. Apple, which is a cold temperate climate fruit, is harvested in September and reaches the table.  Apple is grown mostly in the Mediterranean Region in Turkey. Apple production is also available in Central Anatolia, Aegean, and Marmara Regions. Apples grown in this region meet 90% of the country's apple consumption. Fuji apple, which is especially called Amasya apple, is well known for its texture and taste.

Kiwi

Kiwi is among the exotic and most delicious fruits of the autumn season. The production of kiwi is not only difficult but also the soil structure should be suitable. Until 1930, the kiwi was known as a fruit grown only in China. However, it has begun to spread over the globe, particularly since 1970. The Marmara Region is where sour Turkish kiwis are grown. The Black Sea region produces kiwis, which have a sweeter aroma.

Pomegranate

Described as a symbol of fertility in many cultures, the pomegranate offers a visual feast with its multiple seeds. Pomegranate cultivation dates back to ancient times in Turkey. However, more local production increased after the 2000s and spread to the world. Although it grows especially in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions, pomegranate is also produced in the Southern Anatolia Region.

Quince

Quince, which is considered to be a supporter of health both as a fruit and with its seeds, is not a fruit preferred by everyone. But in any case, its production and consumption are widespread. Quince, which has a bitter taste, is mostly grown in the Marmara Region in Turkey. There are also areas where it grows in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions.

Tangerine

Tangerine, another temperate climate fruit, is a fruit belonging to the citrus family. There are many varieties with many features such as sour, sweet, and seeded. The Mediterranean Region is pointed out as the center of tangerine production in Turkey. In addition, it is grown in the coastal areas of the Aegean and Black Seas. Mersin and Bodrum mandarins are very famous.

Pear

One of the fruits with the most species and variants is the pear, a fruit native to temperate climates. The aroma of the pear, a fruit that is available in the summer and the fall, can alternate between being exceedingly sweet and acidic. Depending on the kind of soil used for growing it, it may vary. The Santa Maria pear or Deveci pear is well-known, particularly in Turkey. In Turkey's Bursa district, it is produced in a remarkably high volume.

Turkey is a country that is mentioned a lot about autumn fruits. Turkey, which is known in the world in terms of talent and quality in the field of agriculture, continues to export fruits to many countries. So what are the best autumn fruits imported from Turkey?

Which Autumn Fruits Are Most Imported From Turkey?

Although the demand for each fruit in Turkey is high, the demand for autumn fruits, in particular, is remarkable. Since the fruits growing in autumn are shaped according to mild conditions, Turkey's fertile lands, which experience all four seasons, attract other countries as well. For this reason, they import many varieties from apples to tangerines. The most imported fruits from Turkey are as follows:

Apple

Apple, the most consumed fruit of all seasons, greets its buyers with the most produced type in autumn. It has been especially popular in Russia in the past years and was among the fruits most imported by India in 2021. Relations with India have developed in the apple export market.

Kiwi

Kiwi draws attention as a fruit whose production increases more and more every year and thus its export rate increases. Turkey's delicious kiwis are imported from many parts of the world. In the first half of 2022, Turkey exported the most kiwifruit to Russia. Russia bought 5 million 454 million dollars of kiwi.

Pomegranate

Turkey realized pomegranate exports worth 132 million dollars in 2021. Pomegranates of superior quality and vibrant hues are in high demand worldwide. Russia, Iraq, and Germany are the countries that are most interested in pomegranates, the star of the fruit juice industry.

Quince

In 2021 and 2022, 79 thousand decares of quince planted were even in the news. The fact that quince, which has very few production areas in the world, is produced in Turkey and exceeds 190 thousand tons, increases the demand for Turkish quince. Countries that want to supply quality products are turning to Turkey's quinces.

Tangerine

Orange flavor tangerine, which is among the important agricultural products, is exported to 72 countries from Turkey. Turkey's tangerine exports in 2021 were worth 453 million and 607 thousand dollars. While the number of people who want to import tangerines is increasing every year, Turkey attaches great importance to tangerines, one of the autumn fruits. Satsuma tangerine produced in Turkey is among the most imported tangerine species. The most exporting countries of Turkish tangerines are Russia and Ukraine.

Pear

The Santa Maria pear has helped Turkey increase its exports of fresh fruit. Turkey exported 64,83 thousand tons of pear in 2020. Pears from Turkey are well known as autumnal fruits and are sought on every continent.  Especially after the export restrictions on autumn fruits such as grapefruit, tangerine, and pear for a certain period, pears started to rise among the fruits imported from Turkey.