Problems encountered in 's export: Isparta province cherry example

Cherry (Prunus avium L.) is a highly valuable fruit species that is widely found in natural habitats of Turkey, the Caspian Sea region and the South Caucasus. It has superior characteristics compared to many fruit species in terms of both its growing and ripening processes and its visual, taste and nutritional values. Cherry, which is the fastest ripening fruit in temperate climate regions in the global context suitable for cherry, has a large cultivation area worldwide. Moreover, thanks to the new varieties developed, the harvest process can be extended from very early to late periods.Drawing attention with its high economic value, cherry has commercial value not only for its fruit; but also for its different parts such as its stem, leaf, seed and even timber. Produced widely for commercial purposes in countries such as Chile, America and Canada in the Americas, Uzbekistan in Asia and Spain in Europe, this fruit has witnessed an increasing global demand especially since the 1980s. Turkey has a strategic position in cherry production thanks to both its geographical and climatic advantages. Cherry production plays a very important role for the Turkish economy as it has the potential to provide farmers with higher income compared to many other products. However, the 5-7% share of cherry exports worldwide and the fact that only 8-15% of annual production is exported show that the potential in this area is not sufficiently utilized. The high income provided by cherries for export also reveals that these products are more valuable than the domestic market. The potential of cherry exports and the increase experienced in this process are directly related to the knowledge, experience, marketing strategies and sales organizations of exporting companies to a large extent. However, factors related to the production process such as the variety, quality, fertilization and pesticide applications of cherries can increase costs and negatively affect export processes.In this study, problems related to cherry exports were analyzed specifically for Isparta province. In the research, themes, codes and subcodes were created using the MAXQDA 2020 program, and a comprehensive evaluation was made in the light of semi-structured interviews conducted with 10 enterprises that export cherry products by purchasing them from the producer throughout Isparta province. According to the data obtained, the "0900 Ziraat" (Napoleon) type cherry stood out as the most exported variety; road transportation was preferred. However, it was determined that the quality of the cherries produced for export was not sufficient and that Germany and Russia were among the most attractive markets. According to the research findings, cherry production and export in Isparta makes significant contributions not only to agriculture but also to the regional economy, industry and service sectors. By eliminating the problems in export, it is possible for Isparta to become stronger in both the national and international markets. This will support regional development and the sustainability of cherry exports.