Turkish cherries have reached Korean market for the first time

Alanar Fruit, one of the largest fruit producer and exporter companies in Turkey, has achieved another first market in the Far East (after exporting cherries to China) and has set the course for South Korea.

The Korean authorities examined Turkish cherries on-site in Alanar's Alasehir facilities. After, the cherries was set out to Seoul in a ceremony, which was attended by representatives of the ministry. A report prepared by the Korean authorities has paved the way for sustainable exports to South Korea.

Huan San, South Korean Plant Quarantine Representative, who came to examine the cherries on behalf of South Korea and prepared the report, which permitted the importation, said: “We followed the production and storage processes in Turkey. The Turkish cherries grown by Alanar fulfilled all the requirements. Korean people will appreciate Turkish cherries, whose flavor is internationally awarded.”

One of the biggest obstacles to Turkish cherry exports to China was the condition that cherries must wait 16 days in cold storage before export. Exports to China started in July after a protocol signed by the two countries that ended that condition.

“We entered the Chinese market, which was deemed impenetrable. Now, we have introduced the Turkish cherry to the South Korean market for the first time in history of fruit growing in Turkey. We will continue to contribute to Turkish exports,” commented Emrah İnce, General Manager of Tekfen Agriculture that operates Alanar Fruit.

The cherries exported to the Far East have received the Golden Star flavor certificate with Superior Taste according to the 2019 Taste Evaluation results and certification by the Brussels-based International Taste Institute.

Last year, Turkey sold 76,000 tons of cherries to 59 countries, including Russia and Germany. This year the country exported 65,000 tons of cherries between January 1 and July 10. Sector representatives said they aim to reach higher sales thanks to the favorable picture for cherry exports.

Find more information on company’s website.