ANKARA, TURKEY — Turkey’s oilseed production is projected to rebound in marketing year 2022-23 as high prices are expected to spur increased planting, according to a Global Agricultural Information Network report from the Foreign Agricultural Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The USDA forecasts a year-to-year increase in sunflower seed (from 1.75 million tonnes to 1.85 million tonnes) and soybeans (125,000 to 140,000 tonnes).

Despite the increased output, the USDA said Turkey is expected to continue its heavy reliance on imported oilseeds and meal.

“Meal and oil consumption is expected to increase year-over-year as Turkey’s economic situation stabilizes,” the report said. “Meanwhile, the government continues its efforts to combat inflation, such as eliminating the import duty and reducing the VAT (Value Added Tax) on sunflower oil, which is an important household staple.”

Turkey’s total oilseed production in 2022-23 is projected to increase by 8% year-over-year to nearly 3.4 million tonnes.

“This increase is predicted based on the expectation that farmers will increase oilseed plantings in response to anticipated higher profit margins compared to alternative crops,” the USDA said.