A new decision by the Turkish Government regarding sunflower seed imports could contribute to strengthening the Republic of Moldova on one of the most important markets for indigenous agricultural products. From January 12 to May 31, 2026, processors in Turkey will be able to import, duty-free, up to 1 million tons of sunflower seeds, reports IPN.
According to the decision, the measure comes in support of the processing industry and local farmers in Turkey, in the context of a challenging agricultural season. The authorities in Ankara also allow the import of 400 thousand tons of crude oil, with a preferential customs tariff of 20%.
The “Agrocereale” Grain Exporters Association notes that in 2024, the Republic of Moldova exported sunflower seeds to Turkey worth 69 million dollars, which represents approximately 45% of the total agricultural exports from Moldova to Turkey. According to the association, this measure opens up additional export opportunities.
Moldova already benefits from a preferential regime of 10% customs duty under the Free Trade Agreement with Turkey, signed in 2014 and entered into force in 2016. This regime is valid within the limits of the established quotas and offers a clear advantage over other suppliers, such as the European Union, where the duties for the same products can reach 20%.
At the same time, it is mentioned that Turkey’s new trade policy reflects the need to balance the support of local farmers with ensuring the flow of raw materials for processors. In this context, maintaining and capitalizing on the preferential treatment offered to Moldova becomes essential for supporting agricultural exports, especially in the sunflower seed segment – one of the most important products in Moldovan-Turkish bilateral trade.
