The 2026 Turkish hazelnut harvest is now underway, with growers benefiting from largely favourable weather conditions for both harvesting and drying. The first volumes of new crop hazelnuts have started to reach the market, although forecasts of rain in the coming days could disrupt harvesting activity and slow the pace of arrivals.

As the world’s leading producer and exporter of hazelnuts, Türkiye remains a key source of supply for global food manufacturers, importers and wholesale buyers. Early harvest developments are therefore being closely watched by market participants looking to assess quality, availability and pricing opportunities for the season ahead.

Early Crop Quality Shows Mixed Results

Hazelnuts from Türkiye’s coastal growing regions are already entering the market, with initial reports indicating mixed quality. Early assessments suggest that some lots have fallen slightly below expectations, with limited insect damage reported in parts of the crop.

Despite these concerns, market sentiment remains positive. Industry sources expect quality to improve as harvesting progresses into the medium and higher-altitude production areas, which traditionally produce larger kernels and higher-quality hazelnuts. As a result, many buyers are taking a wait-and-see approach before making significant purchasing commitments.

Exchange Rates Continue to Support the Market

Foreign exchange rates continue to underpin the Turkish hazelnut market, helping to maintain firm pricing in local currency terms. At present, there are few signs of significant price weakness, although increased trading activity over the coming weeks is expected to bring greater market volatility.

For wholesale buyers and sellers, several factors will influence price direction, including Turkish Grain Board (TMO) purchasing activity, the volume of hazelnuts entering the market, the pace of harvest progress and broader economic conditions within Türkiye.

2026 Turkish Hazelnut Export Outlook

Current estimates place 2026 Turkish hazelnut exports at around 250,000 tonnes of shelled kernels. While the harvest season has begun, the flow of in-shell hazelnuts into the market remains relatively limited, leaving many participants focused on upcoming supply developments.

Looking ahead, market sentiment will be driven by farmer selling behaviour, TMO buying policies, regional quality variations, weather conditions and currency movements. Together, these factors will play a crucial role in shaping Turkish hazelnut prices and determining supply opportunities for buyers across the global hazelnut market.