Hatay's Onion Harvest Yields 5 Tons Per Decare Amidst Rising Prices

The summer harvest in Hatay is in full swing, with onions reaching optimal ripeness. The onion harvest, which began in mid-April, continues into June, showing strong yields and improved prices for producers. The initial price of onions straight from the field was 22 Turkish Lira, but it has since climbed to 30 Turkish Lira, a development that has pleased growers.

This year's abundant yield, averaging 5 tons per decare, is attributed to favorable rainfall, a stark contrast to last year's drought-affected harvest. The increased productivity has brought a smile to farmers' faces, with the onion market experiencing a surge in value. However, the daily wage for seasonal workers, set at 1,000 Turkish Lira, is seen by some as insufficient, especially for those who travel with their families.

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The harvest is going beautifully and well. We are working with 150 workers in the onion field. The workers' daily wage is one thousand liras. The prices of onions were 18 liras 10 days ago, but now the prices have reached 30 liras. The farmer's face smiled this year, and after the recent prices, onions took off. The workers' daily wage is low and doesn't suffice. We come to the onion field with our children. The weather conditions are difficult. Last year, the yield was not good due to drought, but with this year's rainfall, the yield is very good. Onion business went well, and the price was also good. I've been doing this job for 25 years. This year, the work is going well. We expect to get 5 tons per decare from this field. Onions are planted in March, and the harvest continues until August.

Seasonal workers, who travel across different cities to earn a living during harvest times, are currently engaged in collecting onions. The work, which started with planting in March, is expected to continue until August. Sinan Çiftçi, a foreman overseeing a 40-decare field in Kırıkhan, reported that approximately 150 seasonal workers are involved in the harvest. He noted the challenging weather conditions but expressed optimism about the season's overall success.

Ramazan Çoban, one of the 150 workers, confirmed the good yield and profitable prices for onions this year. He explained that the onions are sorted by size into three categories before being packed. After spending about 2.5 months in Hatay, the workers plan to move to Amasya. Despite the hot weather and the current daily wage, Çoban acknowledged that the harvest is going well this year, unlike the previous year when drought impacted productivity.

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We are doing onion collection work here. The harvest is going well this year, and onions are making good money this year. As we collect the onions, we divide them into three based on their size. After separating, we put them into 3 types of crates. After working here for 2.5 months, we will go to Amasya. The weather is very hot here. We come with our children, and the daily wage is not enough. There are a total of 150 workers here. Last year it wasn't good due to drought, but this year the yield is going well.