Strategic Sourcing Report: A Detailed Analysis of Turkey’s Top-Tier Pistachio Suppliers

Executive Summary

This strategic report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Turkish pistachio market and profiles seven of the nation’s most prominent suppliers. The objective of this analysis is to equip B2B buyers with the necessary context and detailed information to make informed and strategic sourcing decisions. The report is built upon a review of market dynamics, an in-depth exploration of key growing regions and product varieties, and a detailed examination of each company’s history, product specializations, and unique value propositions.

The Turkish pistachio market is currently experiencing a significant biennial production cycle, with a record harvest forecasted for the 2024/25 season. This substantial increase in domestic supply is expected to influence pricing and availability.¹ Turkey holds a key position as the world’s second-largest pistachio producer and serves as a major re-export hub for other global producers.³ The suppliers profiled in this report represent a spectrum of capabilities, ranging from globally integrated supply chain companies to highly specialized, quality-focused producers.

Based on an exhaustive review of available information, the following seven companies have been identified as the leading Turkish pistachio suppliers, each offering distinct advantages for different types of B2B buyers:

1. Tiryaki Agro: A global agricultural supply chain leader with extensive logistical capabilities.
2. Antepsan / Antebella: A producer with a strong focus on innovation, R&D, and health-focused products.
3. Mevlanaoglu Pistachio: A purveyor of traditional, high-quality Gaziantep pistachios.
4. Polat Fıstık: A service-oriented company known for transparent and reliable trade practices.
5. ITC NUTS COMPANY: A highly specialized supplier of industrial-grade pistachio kernels.
6. Fıstıkçı Gıda / Starnut: A company with deep multi-generational roots and a commitment to modern quality standards.
7. Şentaş Gıda: A long-established supplier recognized for its tailored B2B solutions.

The report concludes that the selection of the “best” supplier is not a universal truth but a strategic decision based on aligning a buyer’s specific needs—such as volume, product type, and preferred partnership model—with a supplier’s core strengths.

Table 1: Summary of Top 7 Turkish Pistachio Suppliers

Company Name	Primary Product Focus	Key Strengths	Suitability for B2B Buyer
Tiryaki Agro	Bulk commodities & supply chain	Global logistics, organic certifications, and financial stability	Large-scale manufacturers, multinational corporations
Antepsan / Antebella	Innovative and branded products	R&D-driven, probiotic-added products, and farmer support	Confectionery and health-food manufacturers
Mevlanaoglu Pistachio	Traditional Gaziantep pistachios	Meticulous selection, high quality standards	Premium food producers and retail brands
Polat Fıstık	Raw and processed pistachios	Transparent trade practices, international customer base	Buyers prioritizing reliable and trustworthy partnerships
ITC NUTS COMPANY	Industrial-grade kernels	Specialization in graded kernels for confectionery	Confectionery, baklava, and pastry manufacturers
Fıstıkçı Gıda / Starnut	Quality and packaged pistachios	Multi-generational heritage, modern production facilities	Brands seeking a blend of tradition and modern quality
Şentaş Gıda	B2B tailored solutions	Custom solutions for specific product and logistics needs	Buyers with unique or complex requirements

Section 1: Turkish Pistachio Market Dynamics

1.1. Production and Trade Overview

The Turkish pistachio industry is fundamentally shaped by a biennial production cycle, which results in significant year-to-year fluctuations in harvest volume.¹ The 2024/25 marketing year marks a major “on-year,” with production projected to more than double to a record 385,000 metric tons (MT), a substantial increase from the previous year.¹ This surge is attributed to several factors: a natural “on-year” cycle, an increase in the number of bearing pistachio trees, higher yields as these trees reach optimal bearing age, and favorable weather conditions, particularly timely rainfall, which is critical for the largely rain-fed orchards in Turkey.¹ The number of bearing trees alone is estimated at 60.5 million, with an additional 26.6 million non-bearing trees promising future growth in production.¹

Turkey’s pistachio cultivation is highly concentrated, with approximately 95% of the total national production originating from the Southeastern Anatolia region.⁵ Within this region, the provinces of Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa are the most significant, collectively accounting for roughly 80% of total output.⁵ The traditional production area also extends to other provinces like Adıyaman, Siirt, and Kilis.⁵

This robust production places Turkey as the world’s second-largest pistachio producer. In the 2024/25 marketing year, Turkey’s projected production of 385,000 MT will give it a 33% share of the global market, positioning it behind only the United States, which holds a 43% share.³ This demonstrates Turkey’s pivotal role in the global pistachio supply chain. The record harvest provides an exceptional opportunity for international buyers, as the increased supply is expected to lead to greater availability and potentially more competitive pricing in the long term.

Table 2: Turkish Pistachio Production & Trade Statistics (2023-2025)

Metric	2023/24	2024/25 (Forecast)
Total Production (MT)	175,000 6	385,000 1
Export Forecast (MT)	N/A	80,000 1
Import Forecast (MT)	48,000 1	35,000 1
Global Production Rank	2nd	2nd 3
Global Market Share (%)	N/A	33% 3

1.2. Product Varieties and Qualities

Turkey is home to two primary pistachio varieties, which are distinct from those grown in Iran or California.⁵ The most prevalent is the

Antep variety, named after the city of Gaziantep. It is typically smaller and thinner than the Iranian variety, celebrated for its unique flavor profile.⁵ The

Siirt variety accounts for approximately 15% of Turkey’s total production.⁵ Known for its larger size and higher yield, the Siirt variety exhibits less production fluctuation, making it a reliable source for a consistent supply.⁵

The trade of Turkish pistachios is highly segmented by processing format and kernel grade.⁶ Products are available as roasted or raw inshell pistachios, but a significant portion of the market is dedicated to kernels, which are used extensively in the confectionery and pastry industries.⁶ The value of pistachio kernels is determined by their color and maturity, leading to a grading system that is crucial for industrial buyers:

• Perfect Green Kernel (Boz Antep Fıstığı): This is the highest-quality and most valuable grade, obtained from pistachios harvested before they are fully mature.⁷ Its intense green color and rich flavor make it the preferred kernel for premium applications such as Turkish baklava and ice cream.⁶
• Mawardi Kernel: Representing the second tier of quality, this kernel has a mixed coloration between green and red.⁸ It is commonly used in the production of cakes, cookies, and Turkish delight.⁶
• Red Yellowish Kernel: Harvested when the pistachio is fully ripe, this kernel is recognized by its reddish-yellow color and is primarily used for snacks, halva, and other confectionery products.⁸

1.3. Export and Import Trends

Turkey’s role in the global pistachio trade is multifaceted, acting as both a significant producer and a strategic re-export hub.¹ With the record harvest of 2024/25, the country’s domestic pistachio exports are forecast to reach an unprecedented 80,000 MT, a notable increase from previous years.¹ This export growth is further supported by a weakening Turkish Lira, which makes Turkish goods more competitively priced on the international market.⁵

A key aspect of Turkey’s market is the re-export business, which will likely continue to dominate overall exports for the foreseeable future.¹ Turkey imports substantial volumes of pistachios, particularly from the United States, which accounted for 80% of its imports in 2023/24, and also acts as a channel for Iranian pistachios.¹ This dual role means that a large-scale Turkish supplier can provide a consistent year-round supply by leveraging both domestic production and international imports. This supply chain flexibility is a crucial consideration for a multinational manufacturer that must mitigate the risk associated with Turkey’s biennial crop cycle. By sourcing from a supplier with this capability, a buyer is not solely dependent on a single domestic harvest and can ensure continuity in their supply chain.

Recent market reports have highlighted a period of significant volatility in the Turkish pistachio market, characterized by aggressive stockpiling by traders and a sudden surge in prices.² This market disruption has prompted regulatory intervention, with the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Trade conducting raids to regulate the market and ensure stability ahead of the record harvest.² This government oversight suggests a move towards a more predictable market environment, which could be beneficial for buyers in the long run. The current situation presents a dynamic where buyers should be mindful of short-term price fluctuations while recognizing the long-term potential for more favorable and stable pricing as the new crop enters the market and regulatory measures take hold.

Section 2: Profiles of Leading Turkish Pistachio Suppliers

2.1. Tiryaki Agro

Tiryaki Agro is an undisputed leader in Turkey’s agricultural sector. Founded in 1965 in Gaziantep as a small lentil processing facility, the company has since grown into Turkey’s largest agricultural supply chain company with a significant global footprint.¹⁰ It operates with production and warehousing facilities in 14 regions and 18 distinct locations, and its products are sourced from 25 countries and exported to over 80 countries worldwide.¹⁰ This extensive network positions Tiryaki Agro as an enterprise-level solution for large-scale B2B buyers.

Tiryaki’s business model is centered on a robust and integrated supply chain, which it has refined over decades to include advanced logistics, operational excellence, and effective risk management.¹⁰ The company is recognized as Turkey’s largest pistachio producer and exporter, supplying essential ingredients to leading global brands in the chocolate, ice cream, and nut industries.¹¹ Beyond pistachios, its diverse portfolio includes grains, pulses, oilseeds, and organic food, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to agricultural commodities.¹² The company has also demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and organic practices, with certified products growing significantly from 2011 to 2017.¹⁴ Its strategic partnerships with major financial institutions like the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Investcorp further underscore its financial stability and commitment to strong corporate governance, providing an added layer of security for procurement managers.¹⁴

2.2. Antepsan / Antebella

Antepsan, with its consumer-facing brand Antebella, has carved out a unique position in the market through its unwavering focus on innovation and quality. The company’s origins trace back to a dedicated pistachio farmer who, with an innovative perspective, sought to become a top-tier producer.¹⁵ Since 2008, Antepsan has expanded by an impressive 550% and has become a major supplier to Turkey’s largest retail chains.¹⁵

The company’s defining characteristic is its commitment to research and development (R&D). Its mission is to offer the healthiest and highest-quality products, driving innovations that are first-in-market.¹⁵ A prime example is its development of a zero-sugar pistachio powder enriched with a prebiotic and a specific type of probiotic bacteria (1×10^8 bacteria/gr), a product it claims to be a world first.¹⁵ This demonstrates a clear strategy of moving beyond traditional bulk sales to create value-added, health-conscious products. Antepsan also emphasizes a strong connection to its roots, sourcing pistachios grown without pesticides and actively supporting local farmers with pioneering investments.¹⁵ This blend of traditional farming practices and cutting-edge food science makes Antepsan an ideal partner for buyers who are looking to innovate in the health and wellness or confectionery sectors.

2.3. Mevlanaoglu Pistachio

Established in 1997, Mevlanaoglu Pistachio has built a reputation for bringing the unique quality of Gaziantep pistachios to the global market.¹⁷ The company operates on the principle of offering healthy, natural, and high-quality products.¹⁷ A key part of its process is the meticulous selection of each pistachio, ensuring that only the best-quality nuts are processed to preserve their natural flavor and freshness.¹⁷

Mevlanaoglu’s product portfolio is designed to cater to a broad audience, from industrial-scale professional producers to individual consumers.¹⁷ Its offerings include processed varieties such as powdered, sliced, and shelled roasted pistachios.¹⁷ This wide range of products, combined with its focus on high-quality standards, positions Mevlanaoglu as a reliable source for buyers who prioritize a premium, artisan-level product that maintains the authentic characteristics of Gaziantep pistachios.

2.4. Polat Fıstık

Polat Fıstık’s history in the food sector is relatively recent, having transitioned into natural agricultural products in 2011 after leveraging over two decades of experience in the textile and construction industries.¹⁸ Despite this, the company has quickly established a strong international presence, supplying products to over 200 international customers.¹⁸

The company’s primary value proposition is its commitment to “honest and reliable trade” and transparency.¹⁸ Polat Fıstık ensures that all products are of first-class quality and manages all customer orders with full transparency, tracking the process until the goods reach the buyer.¹⁸ Its product range includes first-class raw and processed Antep pistachios, kernels, and pistachio powder.¹⁸ The company also provides specialized kernel and powder products for the baklava, Turkish delight, chocolate, and halva industries.¹⁸ This emphasis on service and transparent business practices makes Polat Fıstık an excellent choice for buyers who place a high value on a trusting and communicative partnership.

2.5. ITC NUTS COMPANY

ITC NUTS COMPANY presents itself as a specialized Turkish Antep pistachio wholesaler, producer, and exporter.⁶ The company’s core strength lies in its deep understanding of the industrial market and its ability to supply highly specific, graded kernel types. Its offerings include roasted inshell pistachios as well as three distinct kernel types: Perfect Green, Mawardi, and Red Yellowish.⁶

The company’s marketing highlights the specific uses for each kernel grade, with the Perfect Green kernel being explicitly recommended for baklava, which demonstrates a deep vertical knowledge of its customers’ end applications.⁸ This specialization is particularly valuable for manufacturers who require a precise ingredient profile for their products. The company’s direct business model encourages potential buyers to contact them directly for detailed product information and pricing, suggesting a streamlined B2B approach.⁶

2.6. Fıstıkçı Gıda / Starnut

Fıstıkçı Gıda, operating under its modern brand Starnut, is a company that effectively blends deep-rooted heritage with modern production standards. The company’s history traces back over a century to 1915, when the grandfather of its founders began cultivating and selling nuts in Gaziantep.¹⁹ Fıstıkçı Gıda was officially established in 1975, reflecting a long legacy of expertise and a commitment to quality.¹⁹

The Starnut brand is positioned as a leader in the nut sector, prioritizing “100% quality” and “absolute customer satisfaction”.¹⁹ The company operates state-of-the-art production facilities and leverages modern packaging technologies to meet consumer demands in both Turkey and worldwide.¹⁹ By referencing Gaziantep’s UNESCO protection of pistachios, the company also underscores its commitment to preserving the region’s agricultural heritage.¹⁹ This combination of a long-standing, family-owned agricultural history and modern quality control systems makes Fıstıkçı Gıda a compelling option for buyers who value a blend of tradition, expertise, and reliable production standards.

2.7. Şentaş Gıda

Şentaş Gıda is a long-established supplier of pistachios and dried fruits, noted for its focus on business-to-business transactions.²⁰ While the available information is less extensive than for other suppliers, its key strength is explicitly stated as providing “tailored B2B solutions”.²⁰ This phrase is significant, as it suggests a primary focus on customization. Şentaş Gıda’s value proposition is not based on scale or branding but on its ability to adapt its product specifications, packaging, and logistics to meet the unique and specific needs of its business customers. This makes the company a strong candidate for buyers who have complex or non-standard procurement requirements and seek a partner willing to provide bespoke services.

Section 3: Comparative Analysis & Key Differentiators

3.1. Benchmarking the Suppliers

A direct comparison of the seven leading suppliers reveals a range of business models and core competencies. This benchmarking allows a buyer to move beyond individual company profiles and select a partner based on specific strategic needs. The following matrix provides a detailed, side-by-side comparison across key metrics.

Table 3: Detailed Comparative Matrix of Top 7 Suppliers

Company Name	Est. Year	Primary Location(s)	Scope	Product Focus	Certifications Mentioned	Unique Selling Proposition
Tiryaki Agro	1965 10	Gaziantep, Istanbul (HQ), Global 10	Global 11	Bulk, Organic, Nuts, Grains 12	N/A (Hasata, a Tiryaki brand)	Largest agricultural supply chain company in Turkey 11
Antepsan / Antebella	2008 15	Gaziantep 15	Regional to Global 15	Branded, Innovative, Health-focused 15	N/A	Pioneer in R&D, probiotic pistachio powder 15
Mevlanaoglu Pistachio	1997 17	Gaziantep 17	Global 17	Traditional Gaziantep, Roasted, Sliced, Powder 17	N/A	Focus on high-quality standards and meticulous selection 17
Polat Fıstık	2011 (Food sector) 18	Birecik/Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep 22	International 18	Raw, Processed, Kernels, Powder 18	Food Safety Policy 18	Transparent and reliable trade with 200+ international customers 18
ITC NUTS COMPANY	N/A	N/A 6	N/A	Wholesale, Kernels, Snacks, Spices 6	N/A	Deep specialization in graded kernels for industrial use 8
Fıstıkçı Gıda / Starnut	1975 (official) 19	Gaziantep 19	Turkey, International 19	Branded, Roasted, Pastes 19	N/A	Long-standing family heritage with modern quality standards 19
Şentaş Gıda	N/A	N/A	N/A	B2B solutions, Pistachios, Dried Fruits 20	BRC, IFS, ISO 22000, HACCP 21	Tailored B2B solutions 20

(Note: While some sources mention specific certifications like BRC, IFS, ISO 22000, and HACCP, they are listed generally as major certifications held by Turkish exporters and are not explicitly tied to every company.²¹ Only Polat Fıstık and Şentaş Gıda have an explicit link to their quality standards or certifications, respectively.¹⁸ The table reflects this distinction.)

3.2. Specializations and Unique Selling Propositions

Each supplier profiled offers a distinct value proposition that caters to different buyer needs. Tiryaki Agro’s strength lies in its immense scale and unparalleled supply chain management. For a high-volume, risk-averse multinational corporation, its global reach, financial backing from institutions like the EBRD, and focus on operational excellence make it a reliable partner capable of ensuring a consistent, high-volume supply year-round.¹⁰

In contrast, Antepsan offers an innovation-driven approach. Its dedication to R&D and the development of unique products like probiotic-infused pistachio powder makes it the ideal partner for companies in the health and wellness sector or those seeking to introduce novel, value-added products.¹⁵ This forward-looking approach distinguishes it from suppliers who focus solely on raw or traditionally processed commodities.

ITC NUTS COMPANY exemplifies a high degree of product specialization. Its primary value is not in offering a broad range of products but in its deep expertise in specific, industrial-grade kernels.⁶ This makes it a perfect fit for confectionery and pastry manufacturers that require a precise and consistent ingredient profile for their recipes, such as the highest-grade green kernels for baklava.

Meanwhile, Polat Fıstık and Şentaş Gıda both differentiate themselves through their customer-centric business models. Polat Fıstık’s emphasis on transparency and honest trade is a crucial factor in a commodity market where trust is paramount.¹⁸ Similarly, Şentaş Gıda’s core competency of providing tailored B2B solutions demonstrates its flexibility and willingness to customize offerings for complex or non-standard orders.²⁰

Finally, Fıstıkçı Gıda and Mevlanaoglu leverage their heritage and commitment to tradition. For a brand that wishes to market an authentic, premium product, these suppliers provide the connection to Gaziantep’s rich agricultural history.¹⁷ Their focus on traditional methods and meticulous selection ensures that the final product retains the qualities that have made Turkish pistachios famous.

Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations

The selection of the optimal Turkish pistachio supplier is a strategic decision that depends on a buyer’s specific needs, volume requirements, and business objectives. Based on this detailed analysis, it is clear that no single supplier is universally “best”; rather, each offers a unique set of advantages.

For large-scale, multinational food manufacturers that prioritize supply chain stability, high volume, and risk mitigation, Tiryaki Agro stands out as the most suitable partner. Its global operational footprint and robust logistical infrastructure are capable of sustaining high demand regardless of local crop cycles.

For boutique food companies, innovative health brands, or those seeking to differentiate their products, Antepsan / Antebella is the recommended choice. Its dedication to R&D and the creation of novel, value-added products provides a pathway for product innovation that goes beyond traditional sourcing. Similarly, ITC NUTS COMPANY is the ideal partner for confectioners and bakers who require a highly specific grade of kernel for their industrial applications.

For buyers who value a strong, trust-based relationship and tailored services, Polat Fıstık and Şentaş Gıda are compelling options. Their emphasis on transparency and customized solutions ensures a collaborative and reliable partnership.

Finally, for premium brands focused on product authenticity and heritage, Mevlanaoglu Pistachio and Fıstıkçı Gıda / Starnut are excellent choices. Their deep roots in Gaziantep and commitment to traditional, high-quality production methods align perfectly with a premium brand narrative.

Future Outlook and Risk Assessment

Looking forward, buyers should be aware of several key market factors that may influence future sourcing decisions. The record harvest forecasted for 2024/25, while promising increased supply, has been met with short-term market volatility due to aggressive stockpiling and regulatory interventions.² Buyers are advised to monitor market stabilization and price trends as the new crop becomes available, as this may present a more favorable purchasing environment.

Furthermore, Turkey’s strategic position as a re-export hub provides a crucial layer of supply chain flexibility that mitigates the risk of the biennial production cycle. Choosing a supplier with a strong import/export network can ensure a consistent, year-round supply, protecting against the inherent fluctuations of the domestic market. Lastly, the continued weakening of the Turkish Lira should be considered, as it may make Turkish pistachios a highly competitive and potentially more affordable option for international buyers in the medium term.⁵

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