Türkiye’s fish production reached a record 1.02 million tons in 2025, the highest level in the history of the Republic, said Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli.

Speaking to Anadolu during a meeting Wednesday with fishermen on the final day of 2025 in Istanbul’s Sariyer district, Yumakli said the quota system introduced under production planning had proven highly effective.

“Fish production in Türkiye reached 1.02 million tons in 2025, breaking an all-time record in the history of the Republic," he said. "This is truly a very large, massive figure.”

Fisheries exports near $2 billion

Highlighting the sector’s contribution to the national economy, Yumakli said fisheries exports had reached nearly $2 billion, calling it a significant milestone for a country surrounded by seas on three sides.

“Climate change has affected all sectors, including fisheries, through rising sea temperatures and changes in fish migration routes," he said. "At times, this made the year challenging, at times easier. But overall, we completed 2025 without major incidents.”

According to preliminary ministry data, about 400,000 tons of total production came from capture fisheries, while 600,000 tons were generated through aquaculture. Final figures are expected to be published by the Turkish Statistical Institute in June.

Balance between conservation and use

Yumakli emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between conservation and utilization, thanking fishermen and fish farmers for complying with sustainability rules.

He also noted that anchovy production exceeded expectations, reaching 245,000 tons in 2025.

“2025 was a year in which our fisheries sector made a very important contribution to Türkiye’s economy. It was a record year for production in both capture fisheries and aquaculture,” Yumakli said.

Expressing hope for continued success, he added that the ministry would keep working in close coordination with the sector to ensure a similar performance in 2026, wishing all stakeholders a productive, safe and prosperous new year.