Turkey's Ice Cream Exports Reach $23.5M: Dairy Industry Insights and Global Market Trends

According to Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) data, Turkey's ice cream exports in the first four months of the year reached $23.5 million, accounting for 13.9% of total milk and dairy product exports. This growth reflects the country's advanced production infrastructure, supported by 919 manufacturing facilities meeting hygiene and food safety standards. Key markets such as Iraq, the US, Northern Cyprus, Kosovo, and Kazakhstan continue to drive international demand.

Turkey's Dairy Industry Export Strategy

■Ice cream, rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, stands out among dairy products.

■8 out of 43 milk processing plants have export approvals to the European Union.

■Maraş Ice Cream, Görele Ice Cream, and regional specialties are gaining recognition as geographical indication products.

■The sector aims to position ice cream as a year-round consumer preference through registered and certified production.

Global Ice Cream Market Outlook

■The global ice cream market is projected to reach $122 billion by 2025, with Turkey emerging as a key exporter.

■Compliance with food safety standards strengthens Turkey's position in international markets.

■ASÜD Secretary General Burhan Sakkaoğlu emphasizes shifting consumer perception from seasonal to daily consumption.

■Strategic focus on quality and traceability aims to build long-term market trust.

Markets view this performance as a reflection of Turkey's dairy sector stability and alignment with global food safety trends. The rising demand for geographically indicated products signals a strategic shift toward value-added exports in the country's trade portfolio.