Türkiye to initiate agricultural action plan for Syria
File photo shows a family of farmers harvests maize in rural Aleppo in Syria. (Photo via news.un.org)
The Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli stated that a specialized team of 14 experts has been formed to address Syria’s agricultural and livestock production needs, adding that work on an action plan has already begun.
Speaking at the “2024 Review and 2025 Goals Meeting,” held at the State Hydraulic Works (DSI) Regional Directorate’s Social Facilities in Istanbul on Friday, Yumakli responded to questions from the press regarding recent developments in Syria.
He emphasized Syria’s lack of income sources apart from agriculture and natural resources, stating: “Our team is currently in the field to evaluate the needs of Syria in both crop and livestock production. This effort will be critical for Syria’s recovery.”
Highlighting Syria’s untapped potential and low production levels, Yumakli expressed confidence in achieving swift and significant results.
Efforts to stabilize meat prices
Addressing concerns about the impact of minimum wage increases on meat prices, Yumakli referenced market distortions that emerged post-COVID-19. “There is a trend of setting exorbitant prices. For instance, pricing a product worth ₺1 ($0.028) at ₺10 is unjustifiable,” he stated.
Yumakli assured that the ministry is imposing strict penalties on those manipulating prices, noting, “There is no actual change in meat prices, but there are attempts to create artificial fluctuations. Through the Meat and Milk Board (ESK), we will regulate the market. Rest assured, we are closely monitoring the situation.”
Commenting on the import of “Angus” cattle, Yumakli clarified that imports address a modest 5% of the demand and align with a broader strategy to increase domestic breeding stock.
“This system ensures we have reserves to meet unexpected needs. We are building our breeding stock to reduce dependency on imports in the long term,” he said.
Yumakli added that within three years, Türkiye aims to eliminate discussions of livestock imports. “The goal is to shift from temporary solutions to sustainable domestic production,” he explained.
Tougher measures for food safety violations
On pesticide usage, Yumakli announced a residue action plan covering 17 provinces to lower pesticide application rates and promote biological pest control.
“We have already reduced pesticide residues by 35% and RASFF notifications by 54%. The EU uses 30% more pesticides than we do,” he noted.
Yumakli also addressed misconceptions about rejected exports to the EU, providing detailed figures to demonstrate Türkiye’s compliance with safety standards.
Yumakli outlined steps to ensure food safety, including severe penalties for violations. “For products that pose health risks, administrative fines can reach up to ₺10.5 million, and we file criminal complaints. Operations are suspended until risks are mitigated,” he stated.
The minister emphasized ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Trade to reform the Wholesale Market Law, with significant updates expected in the coming year.
