Where the future of produce sourcing begins — BIG interview with Murat Özer, Interfresh Eurasia

In a market where global fairs often feel overcrowded and impersonal, Interfresh Eurasia is proving that proximity still matters. Hosted in İzmir — one of Turkey’s key production centres — the show is rapidly becoming a must-attend event for anyone serious about sourcing fresh produce straight from the origin.

Here, exhibitors gain visibility among real buyers, and visitors meet producers face-to-face — without the noise, queues, or long waits of global expos. We spoke with Murat Özer, organiser of Interfresh Eurasia, to learn how this regional show is setting new standards and why its future looks brighter than ever.

Fructidor: We were really impressed with the show this year — both by the organisation and by the positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors. Many people believe that regional events like Interfresh Eurasia represent the future of the industry. What’s your view?

Murat Özer: I share that opinion. Events rooted in production regions have great potential because buyers increasingly want to connect directly with the source. Turkey is one of the world’s leading producers, so hosting a show here creates a direct bridge between growers, exporters, and international importers. Global exhibitions remain important, but regional trade shows like Interfresh Eurasia offer something different — they bring people closer to production, to real supply networks, and to the products themselves. That’s why I believe these events have a very promising future.

Fructidor: How has the show performed this year compared to previous editions?

Murat Özer: Interfresh Eurasia continues to grow strongly. This year we achieved around 23–25% growth in exhibitor numbers and floor space. On the international visitor side, attendance rose by over 50%.

We welcomed key delegations from across the Middle East, the Balkans, and Europe — including 28 companies from Iraq, over 70 buyers from Balkan countries, and more than 100 visitors from across Europe. Many other professionals joined independently because our timing makes sense for the market. Interfresh is the first show of the season, opening the Mediterranean calendar in September.

Fructidor: So timing and geography play an important role?

Murat Özer: Absolutely. Turkey’s strength lies in its year-round production. We supply everything from citrus and melons to tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers across all seasons. This steady output makes Turkey a central player in the global fresh produce trade. Because of this, Interfresh Eurasia is expanding beyond fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2026, we’ll introduce new sections dedicated to frozen, freeze-dried, canned, juice, and jam products — all derived from fresh produce. For instance, from tomatoes you can create juice or paste; from pomegranates, you can make jams or beverages. These value-added categories are the next step for producers and exporters, and they deserve their place at the show.

Fructidor: Have you already set the dates for next year’s edition?

Murat Özer: Yes, we’ll be back in İzmir on 17th–19th September 2026. The event is already included in Turkey’s official national calendar, and we are grateful for the continued support of government institutions.

Fructidor: What other steps are you taking to strengthen the show’s international reach?

Murat Özer: One of our most successful initiatives has been introducing the Partner Countryand Partner City concepts. These help us build strategic relationships and promote Interfresh across multiple regions.

We now have agents and partners in 16 countries, collectively covering over 25 markets. For example, our Indian partner also represents Pakistan; our German partner covers Belgium, Germany, and part of the Netherlands; and our Greek partner extends across Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. This growing network ensures the Interfresh brand reaches a wider audience and attracts qualified, professional buyers who are actively sourcing from Turkey and neighbouring regions.

If you’re interested in sourcing, exhibiting, or partnering with Interfresh Eurasia, send your inquiry today.