Turkey
Turkey represents a dynamic coffee market at the intersection of Europe and the Middle East. While historically dominated by traditional Turkish coffee, the country has experienced a clear shift in consumption patterns over the past decade. In 2023, Turkey imported coffee valued at approximately USD 449 million (OEC, 2023), highlighting the country's near-total dependence on imported green beans and the growing commercial importance of coffee within the domestic beverage sector. Per-capita coffee consumption is estimated at around 1.9–2.0 kilograms per person per year (FAOSTAT), which remains below many European markets but has shown steady growth.
Tradition and growth of new consumption
The Turkish coffee market is defined by the coexistence of long-established traditions and a rapidly expanding specialty segment. Traditional coffee preparation remains dominant in households, while urban centres such as Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir have seen a sharp increase in specialty cafés and independent roasters over the last decade (6Wresearch). This dual structure creates demand for both blending-grade coffees for traditional use and higher-quality Arabica coffees for specialty and hospitality channels.
For coffee bean exporters, Turkey offers both growth potential and strategic positioning. Rising café density and increased consumer exposure to specialty coffee have driven demand for traceable and differentiated origins. At the same time, Turkey's geographical position allows it to function as a commercial bridge between Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East, with some roasters supplying neighbouring markets alongside domestic demand.
Market entry generally involves cooperation with local importers or roasters familiar with customs procedures and quality expectations. While regulatory requirements align with standard food safety and phytosanitary frameworks, commercial success depends on understanding local taste profiles and price sensitivity, particularly outside the premium segment.
Coffex Istanbul
Coffex Istanbul is Turkey's first dedicated coffee trade fair and has been held annually since 2019, positioning itself as a central meeting point for the country's growing coffee industry. The sixth edition takes place from 8–10 May at the Lütfi Kırdar Congress and Exhibition Center in Istanbul. The most recent edition recorded. 659 commercial visitors, including 8,400 international visitors, alongside 16,400 coffee enthusiasts, highlighting the event's strong professional and public engagement. The fair hosts a broad cross-section of the coffee value chain, including roasters, green bean suppliers, equipment manufacturers, importers and producing-country representatives, supported by conferences, cupping sessions and hands-on workshops focused on brewing, roasting and sustainability.