Driving much of this growth are three high-demand species: sea bass, sea bream, and Turkish salmon. Turkish salmon has become a breakout success story, with exports skyrocketing from $29 million in 2019 to $498 million in 2024. Sea bass exports rose from $331 million to $570 million, while sea bream grew from $286 million to $508 million. According to Sinan Kızıltan, Chair of the Turkish Aquaculture and Animal Products Exporters’ Sector Board, these three species have carried the industry’s export performance over the past five years. He also highlighted that Turkish seafood has found its way onto menus in some of the world’s most renowned restaurants and continues to be met with strong international demand.

Turkiye now exports seafood to over 100 countries, including major markets such as Russia, Italy, the Netherlands, Greece, the UK, Japan, the US, Germany, Spain, and South Korea. In 2024, Russia led with $435 million in imports, followed by Italy with $239 million and the Netherlands with $170 million. Japanese demand for Turkish bluefin tuna reached $115 million, while air cargo logistics helped boost exports to the U.S. to $93 million. In total, the top ten countries accounted for $1.59 billion of Turkiye’s seafood exports.

Behind this export success is a focused commitment to sustainability, innovation, and certification. The sector has rapidly adopted advanced aquaculture technologies and modernized facilities to meet rising global standards. Turkish producers now operate under a robust certification framework, including ISO 9001, ISO 22000, GLOBALG.A.P., ASC, BAP, BRCGS, IFS, and Friend of the Sea, as well as Halal certification — all of which reflect the industry’s emphasis on food safety, traceability, environmental responsibility, and consumer trust.

Kızıltan emphasizes that production investments have been closely tied to quality improvements. Thanks to research and development, more efficient and eco-friendly farming methods are being adopted, helping reduce marine pollution and support long-term sustainability. Turkiye’s fishing fleet has also advanced significantly, with vessels ranging from small coastal boats to large-scale, open-sea fishing ships equipped with cutting-edge technologies.

With its combination of strong logistics, diverse market reach, and high standards, Turkiye’s seafood industry is positioning itself as a globally trusted supplier. As demand for reliable, sustainable animal protein continues to rise, Turkish aquaculture is not just keeping up — it’s shaping the future of global seafood trade.