The role of tropical fruit production in regional development: A model proposal on the scale of Alanya

This study aims to examine the production and marketing structure that constitutes the supply chain of tropical fruits grown in Alanya district of Turkey. The research focuses on tropical fruit production, farming methods used, product diversity, growing conditions and marketing networks. In addition, suggestions were made for the development of tropical fruit production in Alanya and the evaluation of opportunities in this field, the expansion of the domestic market and the determination of foreign market opportunities, and it is aimed to contribute to regional development. There are a limited number of studies on tropical fruit production and marketing. This study aims to eliminate the deficiencies in the sector and to contribute to the production and marketing of tropical fruits. In this study, which was carried out with qualitative research methods, semi-structured interviews were conducted with tropical fruit producers and marketers in Alanya and the data were analyzed with MAXQDA 2020 software. In addition, in the light of the research findings, a SWOT analysis was carried out for tropical fruit production and marketing. The population of the study consisted of tropical fruit producers and marketers in Alanya district of Antalya province. Participants were selected by purposive sampling method, and 8 people were determined to represent the producers and 12 people to represent the marketers. The study shows that tropical fruits, where the climate and soil conditions of the region are suitable for production, increase domestic and international demands with their high nutritional value and increase investments due to their high value-added products. In addition, it is emphasized that the planning of these investments in accordance with international standards is important in terms of sustainability. The study revealed that investments in tropical fruit production in Turkey could not be determined and that product tracking systems should be implemented effectively. It has been determined that incentives and supports are not sufficient for tropical fruit investment. It was emphasized that the tropical fruit production potential was not used and that investments should be supported by new investments. In addition, packaging and logistics systems should be created in accordance with target market standards. It emphasizes the need to establish unions and cooperatives, to increase product promotion services, to inform producers and to strengthen producers in the market. In addition, the importance of the sector's cooperation with non-governmental organizations, public institutions, manufacturers and marketers through clustering was emphasized.