Turkish food exports to Iraq exceeded $16 million in July, strengthening trade between the neighboring countries. Mediterranean exporters shipped $16.8 million worth of food products to the Iraqi market. Iraq ranked as their second-largest foreign market during the month.
Iran remained the leading destination for Turkish Mediterranean food exporters in July. Shipments to Iran reached $21.3 million during the month. Iraq followed with $16.8 million, while Syria ranked third with $9.9 million.
The Mediterranean Cereals, Pulses, Oilseeds and Products Exporters’ Association reported strong overall performance. Its members recorded $173.5 million in exports during July. That figure represented a 13% increase compared with the same month last year.
Pulses represented the largest product category in the association’s July exports. The sector generated $36.3 million, accounting for about 22% of total shipments. Vegetable oils followed with $35.8 million, while pastry products reached $32.8 million.
Red lentil exports also recorded significant growth during the month. Their export value reached $26.6 million. That represented a 65% increase compared with the previous year.
The Turkish food exports to Iraq highlight the growing importance of the Iraqi market for Turkish producers. Iraq remains a major destination because of its geographic proximity and strong consumer demand. Regular cross-border trade also supports supply chains between businesses in both countries.
Turkish exporters have long viewed Iraq as a key market for agricultural and food products. The two countries maintain extensive commercial links across several sectors. Food products remain an important part of that relationship.
Turkiye Exporters Assembly President Mustafa Gultepe described Iraq as one of Turkiye’s important export markets. He also noted that cereals rank among the three leading Turkish export sectors to Iraq. The comments underline the importance of food trade within broader bilateral commerce.
The latest figures come as Turkish exports reach new levels overall. Turkiye recorded total exports of $25.6 billion in July. The figure marked a 2.9% increase compared with July of the previous year.
The Turkish food exports to Iraq could continue growing as demand for imported food products remains strong. Iraqi consumers and businesses rely on international suppliers for many food categories. Turkish companies benefit from their proximity and established distribution networks.
The latest export figures also show strong demand for staple products. Pulses, vegetable oils, lentils, and processed foods all recorded significant sales. These categories serve both household consumption and Iraq’s food-service sector.
Iraq’s position as the second-largest market also highlights its importance within the Mediterranean exporters’ regional strategy. Turkish companies continue to seek opportunities in nearby markets. Iraq offers a large consumer base and relatively short transportation routes.
The Turkish food exports to Iraq reached $16.8 million in July, according to the exporters’ association. The figure places Iraq behind Iran but ahead of Syria among the association’s leading markets. Continued demand could support further growth in bilateral food trade during the coming months.