July 23, 2026
We sat down for a conversation with Tuba Memis of Memisoglu Tarim, to get her insights on this year's Turkish pulse production and expectations for their re-export markets. We talked about a struggling lentil crop, reductions in chickpea acres, and how Iraqi dynamics are shifting this year’s Turkish imports. We also discussed the impact of war in the Middle East and a bright future for Turkish exports to China.
Due to the rains in May this year, the lentil harvest started a little late — approximately 2-3 weeks later than normal.
Contrary to expectations, the desired yield and quality of red lentils were not achieved this year. The rains, in particular, caused problems with quality. Furthermore, as domestic red lentil prices have remained higher than global prices for several years now, some speculators (investors) outside the sector bought up red lentils at high prices, expecting prices to rise further. As a result, red lentil exporters and industrialists did not achieve their target buying tonnage because the product never reached the market; it was bought up by speculators in the fields. Currently, domestic red lentil prices are far above world prices, and we do not expect a decrease in the near future.
READ THE FULL ARTICLEConflict-driven disruptions in the Middle East reshaped Turkish pulse trade this year. Congestion at southern ports such as Mersin increased as cargoes bound for Iran and Iraq were rerouted, while uncertainty over freight rates weighed on re-export business.
Red lentils were the biggest disappointment of Türkiye's 2026 pulse season. Delayed harvesting and heavy May rainfall reduced both yields and quality, with production now estimated at around 250 KMT instead of the expected 350–400 KMT.
Türkiye agricultural production / pulses global trade / logistics / Middle East / export markets
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
