Turkish Bay Leaf Export: Turkey's Position in the Global Market and the Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

What share of the world bay leaf market does Turkey hold?

Current data show Turkey supplies 90-93% of global bay leaf volume. Annual production is roughly 12,000-15,000 tons of dried bay leaf, of which 80% is exported. The remaining producing countries are Georgia, France (Provence), Croatia and Italy, each staying below 3%. This dominance rests on the natural distribution range of the Black Sea microclimate and a 100+ year harvest-processing tradition.

Which are the main export markets for Turkish bay leaf?

According to 2024 data the top five buyers are: Germany (22%), USA (15%), Russia (10%), Netherlands (8%, re-export hub) and France (7%). New markets — China (food + cosmetics), South Korea (tea blends) and the Gulf states — have grown 40%+ over the last 5 years. KRD & EKAM maintains direct buyer networks in each of these markets, shipping to Europe on a container basis and to Asia and the Gulf on both container and pallet basis.

What is the bay leaf price range and which factors drive it?

FOB Turkey prices in 2024-2025 range from 3,500-6,500 USD/ton by quality class: SA Bale 3,500-4,000, FAQ 4,000-4,800, Machine Selection 4,800-5,500, HPS 4-7 5,500-6,500 USD/ton. Four factors dominate pricing: (1) harvest volume (climate-dependent), (2) essential oil content (lab report), (3) container loading period (Q4 typically carries a 5-8% premium), (4) certification requirements (Organic/Kosher adds 10-12%). Bulk-export discounts (20+ containers/year) are negotiated separately.