Market reconstruction in Turkey: From sugar market to sugar beet farming

This dissertation investigates the reconstruction of the Turkish sugar market within the context of neoliberal globalization. It adopts a socially and politically constructed view of neoliberalization and analyzes the reconstruction process and emerging market dynamics at both national and local levels. First, the study examines the trajectory of sugar production, tracing its shift from a state monopoly to market liberalization after the 1980s. The historical functions and uses of sugar production, and also beet production providing farmers with a reliable source of income made the market reconstruction a process harboring conflicting logics, interests, and actors. Second, through field research conducted in Konya, the study analyzes the consequences of market reconstruction on beet farming in the local context, highlighting the transformation of agrarian Turkey. Production quotas, adopted as the main tools for reorganizing production had tremendous effects in the local context. Within a context of increasing financialization of agriculture, beet becomes essential due to the networks and opportunities it provides, allowing farmers to sustain their livelihoods despite their disadvantaged market position. However, during its trajectory, beet also transformed from a primary income-generating crop to a commodity produced not for its profit but for secondary benefits. Overall, this research sheds light on the reconstruction of the Turkish sugar market, offering insights into the complex dynamics of neoliberal globalization and the role of sugar beet in farmers' livelihood strategies.