The average export value of cereals, such as wheat, maize, rye, oats, and canary seed, showed changes across the three periods. During the first period, cereal exports reached 58 million francs. In the second period, the value slightly fell to 54 million francs. In the third period, covering 1900–1904, cereal exports increased again to 62 million francs.
Cereals formed the largest part of total exports in all periods. They represented nearly 76 percent of total exports in the first period and 75 percent in the second. However, their share fell to 62 percent during the period from 1900 to 1904. This decrease in percentage does not mean a decline in importance, but rather a growth in other export categories Guided Istanbul Tour.
Role of Agricultural Products
When cereals are combined with other agricultural products, the dominance of agriculture becomes clearer. These products include colza, tobacco, beans, peas, fruits, and other crops. In addition, exports closely linked to agriculture, such as cattle, poultry, and eggs, must also be considered.
Together, these agricultural exports accounted for 80 to 85 percent of total export value. In contrast, exports of manufactured foods, animal waste products, and other non-agricultural goods formed only 15 to 20 percent of total exports. This confirms that the country’s economy depended heavily on agriculture during this period.
Comparison with Earlier Periods
A comparison between the period 1900–1904 and the two earlier five-year periods shows limited overall decline. Only wheat and corn exports decreased, by 8 million francs, or 19 percent, compared with the earlier periods.
Products Showing Strong Growth
Many other agricultural exports showed strong growth. Maize exports increased by 5.5 million francs compared with the first period and by 8.2 million francs compared with the second. Egg exports rose sharply, increasing by 5.1 million francs over the first period and by 4.4 million francs over the second.
Exports of barley, oats, wheat flour, colza, silk-worm cocoons, and rye also rose significantly. Some products, such as oats and colza, showed especially high growth rates. These increases suggest improved production, higher demand, or better access to foreign markets.
In summary, agricultural exports remained the foundation of foreign trade. While some cereal exports declined slightly, many other products experienced strong growth, helping to balance overall export performance.