Türkiye ranks seventh globally in agricultural output

Speaking at the Social Sciences University of Ankara, Yumakli rejected claims that Türkiye’s agricultural sector has weakened or that the country is excessively dependent on imports. He said Türkiye remains capable of meeting domestic demand for many essential and strategically important agricultural products.

The minister noted that 206 plant-based products are commercially cultivated across Türkiye. He also stressed that complete domestic production of every crop grown around the world would not be realistic, while emphasizing the breadth of Türkiye’s agricultural capacity.

Major investment in irrigation

Yumakli pointed to infrastructure projects as another factor supporting agricultural production. He said the State Hydraulic Works has constructed more than 120,000 kilometers of irrigation and related infrastructure since 2002, a distance he compared with circling the globe three times.

The minister also highlighted Türkiye’s afforestation efforts, saying around 500 million seeds and saplings are planted nationwide each year. According to Yumakli, the country ranks first in Europe for afforestation.

Türkiye expands forestry capacity

Yumakli said Türkiye’s environmental and forestry efforts also include large-scale planting campaigns. On Nov. 11, 2025, authorities planted 14 million seeds and saplings across the country in a single day, he said.

Turning to forest-fire preparedness, Yumakli said Türkiye deployed 28 aircraft and 119 helicopters in firefighting operations last year. He added that 14 unmanned aerial vehicles were used to monitor forested areas and support the country’s response to fires.