Agriculture in Istanbul: production volume and sector support

Despite its status as one of the world's largest metropolises, Istanbul continues to develop its agriculture, contributing to the city's economy. According to Suat Parıldar, Head of the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the six strategic crops covered by production planning include wheat, barley, sunflower, canola, dry beans, and chickpeas.

The national database registers nearly 610,000 decares of agricultural land, accounting for about 82 percent of the city's cultivated land. Approximately 6,000 farmers are registered. About 90 percent of agricultural production is conducted under planning that takes into account climate, water resources, geography, market conditions, and productivity.

The agricultural sector benefits from its proximity to major distribution networks and a vast consumer market, with over 140,000 food service businesses located in the city. Additional strengthening of the sector is provided by government measures. In 2025, support payments to farmers exceeded 525 million Turkish liras ($10.7 million), and support rates were increased for 2026.

In addition, vegetable growing is stimulated in the province by providing transplants. During the spring and autumn seasons, more than 2 million tomato, lettuce, cucumber, and broccoli transplants were distributed to farmers.