Produced in Turkey and exported to 54 countries: Total reached 30 million dollars

In Kahramanmaraş, known for its significant aquaculture capacity, fish producers have made substantial progress in rebuilding their facilities with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Last year, they successfully produced 10,000 tons of trout and 80 million fish fry.

Continuing operations in fish farms set up in local reservoirs, these producers exported 6,000 tons of trout to 54 countries, primarily to Germany and Russia, generating a revenue of 30 million dollars in the first nine months of this year.

Ramazan Bilir, the Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry, highlighted that the fish farming sector faced challenges due to the devastating earthquake on February 6, 2023. However, various supports were provided by the ministry to ensure production could continue.

Bilir emphasized Kahramanmaraş's importance in fish production, noting that the fish raised in the city’s reservoirs are regaining their place in global cuisines. With 68 registered enterprises in the region, the annual production capacity is 17,500 tons, and while 6,000 tons are exported, the remainder is consumed domestically. Kahramanmaraş ranks first in Turkey for processing capacity and third in Europe, with a target to increase production to 20,000 tons by 2025.

Total Reached 30 Million Dollars

Bilir shared that the earthquakes negatively impacted the sector, causing damage to cages and facilities, with 14 producers suffering losses of approximately 30 million lira. He noted that the support for earthquake-affected producers included renewing damaged cages and repairing equipment.

İbrahim Sarı, the president of the Kahramanmaraş Fish Producers Association, emphasized the city's significant role in fish exports, stating that salmon and trout from local reservoirs have been exported to 54 countries. He characterized Kahramanmaraş as a trout city and expressed optimism about recovery and resuming exports with government assistance.