Current Exchange Rates (26.07.2005 – Central Bank of Turkey, www.tcmb.gov.tr ) :
1 USD = 1.3386 TL
1 EUR = 1.6145 TL
1 GBP = 2.3265

We do not expect cumin being very cheap in this season. Crop is about 5.000 / 6.000 mton in Turkey. On the other hand, Syria and other exporter countries have enough crop.

A slight decrease can be seen at blue poppy prices. In spite of the fact that, crop is not sufficient in Turkey, we do not predict a sharp increase because crop is better than expected in Czech Republic.

No need to suspect, it is anise that the most stressed market of 2005 for Turkish producers/exportes in seeds. Prices are turning around US$ 2.25/kg FOB at present, which is much more expensive than Syrian origin. The crop is insufficient even for Turkish raki producers. Nobody can predict the prices in the coming months. Of course, Syrian anise cannot reach Turkish quality, we recommend to hurry the buyers that prefers high quality crops.

Oregano weak and quite, buets are not active, crop is beneficial. Exporters have stocks from last season. Prices start the season at suitable level.

New crop shipping position for laurel leaves is at the end of August / beg. of September. Too early to state exact comments, nonetheless many exports are agree on that new crop prices will not be lower than previous one.

Sage is starting new season at high level again. Raw material is expensive at the local market. Several months after harvesting, prices slightly went down last year, same development is possible coming moths.

Producers are increasing caper prices no matter demand.

Please contact us should you have any questions or additional info regarding our products..

Mondial Int'l Agency Ltd.