Iraq becomes top buyer of Turkish cereals, pulses in seven months

ANKARA, Türkiye — ANKARA — Iraq became the largest importer of Turkish cereals and pulses in the first seven months of 2026, with purchases of $855.9 million, according to the head of Turkey's Cereals, Pulses and Oilseeds Sector Board. Nihad Öysal said Turkey's sector exports reached approximately $6.9 billion during the period, with the United States ranking second at $538.5 million in imports. Öysal added that Turkey's sunflower oil exports rose 21.2 percent to $769.3 million, while shipments of chocolate and cocoa products climbed to $588.7 million. He pointed to shipping disruptions, geopolitical tensions and climate conditions as factors affecting global food commerce. Turkey's wheat production for the season has exceeded 23 million tons, according to the board. No further details on the export figures were immediately available.