Eastern Black Sea Exports Exceed $831 Million

Exports carried out from the Eastern Black Sea region during the January–May period of 2026 were recorded at a total of 831 million 167 thousand 880 dollars across four provinces. The exports of Trabzon, Rize, Artvin, and Gümüşhane contributed significantly to the regional economy through sales spread across 115 countries.

Selçuk İskender, Chairman of the Board of the Eastern Black Sea Exporters’ Association (DKİB), shared information regarding the provincial distribution of exports in his statement. According to the announcement, during the said period, Trabzon exported 625 million 282 thousand dollars, Rize 101 million 145 thousand dollars, Gümüşhane 65 million 290 thousand dollars, and Artvin 39 million 451 thousand dollars.

Notable increases were also observed in export performance on a yearly basis. Compared to the same period of the previous year, growth was recorded at 12% in Trabzon, 31% in Rize, 76% in Gümüşhane, and 26% in Artvin.

Hazelnuts Lead Exports in the Eastern Black Sea

When the sectoral distribution is examined, hazelnuts ranked first in exports with 437 million 615 thousand dollars. Hazelnuts were followed by mining and metals with 135 million 466 thousand dollars, fisheries and animal products with 88 million 278 thousand dollars, and fresh fruits and vegetables with 67 million 758 thousand dollars.

The number of countries exported to from the region reached 115, with the top export markets being Italy, Germany, Russia, Georgia, and France. Meanwhile, exports to Germany recorded the highest increase with a 96% rise.

It was also emphasized in the statement that exports were made to 13 new countries compared to the same period of the previous year, including the Philippines, Indonesia, El Salvador, Argentina, and Sudan, which represents a significant development in terms of market diversification.

Sources: AA, Trabzonport