Greenhouse production zone to be established in Antalya for flowers and plants

An organized agricultural zone will be set up in Antalya, which plays a major role in Turkiye’s production and export of cut flowers and ornamental plants, to boost productivity in the sector. Numerous cut flowers, especially carnations, cultivated in Antalya’s greenhouses, are exported to 80 countries, aiding the national economy.

During the initial 11 months of this year, the city’s exports of ornamental plants and products reached a value of 56 million USD, representing a 3.4% rise from the previous year. In Antalya, which represents about 50% of Turkiye’s exports of ornamental plants and products, efforts have commenced to create an organized agricultural zone aimed at enhancing the sector’s productivity.

Ali Candir, the president of Antalya Commodity Exchange, stated that they are engaged in significant agricultural planning efforts aimed at benefiting producers and consumers alike. Candir indicated that, in addition to raising awareness about efficient water use, the broad adoption of water-efficient crops, and planning production in light of global climate change, they are taking measures to bolster the agricultural sector.

Candir stated that they had developed the Organized Agricultural Zone project in this direction, adding, “We have created our feasibility report for establishing an Organized Agricultural Zone for ornamental plants. We are still looking for an appropriate location and are currently working on a few options. We aim to establish an ideal Organized Agricultural Zone of around 120 hectares that utilizes water efficiently, minimizes labor needs, generates its own energy, and effectively manages waste.”

Candir emphasized that Antalya has considerable potential for ornamental plants and that this endeavor will aid in bolstering the industry. He explained that exports of ornamental plants have risen in comparison to the previous year and noted that the Organized Agricultural Zone will boost both production and exports.

He also pointed out that the project will aid in agricultural organization, stating, “One of the largest fundamental issues in Turkiye is the weakness of growers acting collectively. In developed countries or those with effective agricultural practices, irrespective of the terminology used – cooperatives, unions, companies – growers collaborate to accomplish two essential objectives. They greatly lower their expenses by procuring together. In the same way, they gain a sales advantage by offering their products together. In view of these realities, we may need to reassess and refresh our model for organizing agriculture.”

Source: AA