Green Diamond is Spreading from Alanya to the World
In Alanya, which meets 70% of the country's avocado needs, the harvest is in full swing. The President of the Alanya Avocado Producers Union, Hilmi Sevilgen, stated, “We have started exports to Russia, Romania, Hungary, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries as we began the harvest.”
Interest in avocados, referred to as the green diamond, is increasing day by day. Alanya, which meets approximately 70% of the country's avocado needs, also contributes to the national economy through exports. Hilmi Sevilgen announced good news to consumers via Dim TV, noting that avocado prices are expected to decrease with the harvest. “We had the Clifton variety avocados, and we have completed the harvest as of this month. We started harvesting the Zutano variety on September 15. This month, we are beginning the harvest of the Fuerte and Bacon varieties. We advise some producers to wait until October 15, but especially to gather products weighing over 230 grams. The harvest is normal compared to last year. There is a slight decrease in their own orchards, but combined with the newly added orchards, we are already above last year’s target. Exports are also continuing. However, imported products are also coming in. By the end of this month, all imported products will be harvested. There is no problem for consumers. Prices will drop further. Currently, they are in the range of 25-30 TL, but they will decrease to 20-25 TL. A significant amount of product has come from Beirut, causing some trouble for our domestic producers. We have started harvesting all varieties in domestic production. As we began the harvest, we also started exporting to Russia, Romania, Hungary, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries,” he said.
STOLEN PRODUCTS ARE SOLD OUTSIDE THE MARKET
Speaking about stolen products, President Sevilgen said, “Theft is our biggest problem. Last year, we had a good collaboration with the gendarmerie teams. We have started our efforts again this year. Some producers are using photo traps and camera systems. In recent years, products have not been coming to the Alanya Market. Products are now being bought and sold outside. Products must be handled in the warehouses that are registered with the market, but outside of that, anyone is buying and selling the products. Those who bring products to the market already know their producers. If stolen products are being sold through those without permits outside the market, then that’s how it’s happening. The important thing is that the products bought and sold outside need to be monitored more closely,” he said.
