"The Losses Awaiting Farmers After 'Green Gold' Harvest"

The eagerly awaited pistachio harvest in Gaziantep, which is celebrated every year, unfortunately came to an end this year with the last collected pistachios. Farmers are experiencing significant disappointment as they feel they are not receiving a fair return for their hard work in the fields. The year 2023 has been a total loss year for pistachio producers due to the drought affecting all of Turkey.

Although Gaziantep is one of the most important centers for pistachio production in Turkey, a decrease of 80 percent was observed this year. The lack of sufficient rainfall, along with agricultural frost events, has resulted in farmers having a very limited crop left. High temperatures and inadequate irrigation conditions have created significant tension between producers and consumers in this region, known for its abundance of pistachios in Asia.

In recent years, the rising prices and demand for pistachios had renewed farmers' hopes. However, this year's loss in yields has created significant uncertainty in the sector. Farmers are awaiting government support and the implementation of new agricultural policies to compensate for these losses. Many producers express how these losses have affected them not only financially but also psychologically.

The impact of this decrease in production on consumer prices in the coming years is a subject of curiosity. Pistachios, which are in high demand in both local and international markets, could lead to price increases affecting consumer budgets. The insufficient production of raw materials may increase dependency on imports in the future and negatively affect our competitiveness.

Nevertheless, improvements in pistachio farming in Gaziantep are believed to minimize future production losses. Farmers emphasize the need to adopt proper irrigation and agricultural practices during this process.

In conclusion, the year 2023 being a lost year for pistachios captures the attention not only of local producers but also of pistachio consumers. Ensuring healthy and sustainable production in the coming years is vital for the future of this valuable product.