President Erdoğan: “We Have No Problems in Agricultural Production and Food Supply Security”

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan made significant remarks on Türkiye’s agricultural sector and food security during his speech at the World Farmers’ Day Celebration Program held at the Presidential Complex, Beştepe.

Erdoğan stated that Türkiye has no problems regarding agricultural production and food supply security, emphasizing that “In our beautiful homeland, 206 different types of agricultural products are currently cultivated. In many of them, we are self-sufficient.”

Expressing gratitude to farmers, Erdoğan underlined that producers across all 81 provinces contribute greatly to the national economy and food supply chain. He also thanked the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for organizing the event.

“Soil is sacred like water”

Highlighting the cultural and spiritual importance of agriculture, Erdoğan said soil is considered sacred in Türkiye: “Soil is as sacred as water. It is life, blessing, and abundance.” He also referenced a historical anecdote attributed to Yahya Kemal, emphasizing the deep connection between the land and past generations.

Strong agricultural production and export performance

Erdoğan noted Türkiye’s strong global ranking in agricultural production, stating that the country ranks 3rd in vegetable production and 4th in fruit production worldwide. He added that Türkiye is among the top three in 21 crop categories, is Europe’s leader in honey production, and ranks second in aquaculture.

Food supply security emphasized

Referring to global crises, climate change, and conflicts, Erdoğan stressed that food security has become a strategic issue worldwide. He stated that Türkiye has already taken precautionary measures and successfully ensured national food supply security through production planning and stock management.

939 billion TL support for agriculture

Erdoğan announced that agricultural support reached 939 billion Turkish lira for 2025. He highlighted rural development programs, youth and women-focused incentives, and livestock support schemes designed to strengthen production capacity.

New agricultural and food transformation project

Erdoğan introduced a new World Bank-supported initiative titled “Türkiye Agricultural Food Sector Transformation Project for Employment and Rural Prosperity.” The project includes:

• $5.3 billion financing over 10 years
• Up to $10 million investment support per project
• 250,000 new jobs
• Market access opportunities for 400,000 farmers

He stated that the program will strengthen investment, employment, and sustainable agricultural growth.

Erdoğan concluded by wishing the new initiatives success for farmers, producers, and the entire agricultural sector.

Kaynak: Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye – World Farmers’ Day Speech