Trade-show time in Turkey! GrowTech Antalya kicked off this morning at the ANFAŞ International Exhibition and Convention Center, running from November 18–21. The first day opened with strong international participation and a busy show floor. The event combines a focus on a local market with an international scope, attracting many visitors from the region, extending to the Middle East.
Click here for the exhbitor list.
© Priscilla Heeffer | HortiDaily.comKanishka, Hayleys Fibre, ready for a new coco season
© Priscilla Heeffer | HortiDaily.comMartin van Zeijl, Bom Greenhouses, is also present for the Middle East presence
Market challenges amid high attendance
While the show started energetically, the Turkish horticulture market continues to face challenges. Currency devaluation remains a key concern—"the lira is worth almost nothing," one exhibitor noted—pushing companies to maintain strong export volumes, particularly as Türkiye strengthens economic ties with Russia.
Subsidies for new greenhouse construction remain available, but only in designated zones and under strict regulatory conditions. As a result, investment decisions are often cautious.
Plastic still dominates, but quality issues drive innovation
Despite a global shift toward high-tech greenhouse materials, plastic-covered structures remain the dominant greenhouse type in Türkiye. Local manufacturers face competition from foreign suppliers. This trend was evident on the show floor: Italian manufacturer Eiffel, known for its higher-grade greenhouse plastics, made its debut at GrowTech Antalya this year. Exhibitors highlighted that imported materials are gaining traction as growers seek longer-lasting solutions.
Global and regional participation
Countries with climates similar to Türkiye remain the most active on the first day, with strong delegations from neighboring regions. Mexico is also emerging as an increasingly important market, reflecting broader industry trends where hot-climate horticulture invests in structures, coverings, and climate solutions adapted to high temperatures and strong radiation.
© Priscilla Heeffer | HortiDaily.comTeam Plastika Kritis
© Priscilla Heeffer | HortiDaily.com
Zuybede Coban from Istanbul Sera Plastic
Conferences and thought leadership take center stage
GrowTech Antalya is not only a commercial hub but also a platform for discussion on the future of agriculture. Over four days, the event brings together academics, NGOs, government officials, and industry leaders to explore trade, innovation, and sustainability. International and national speakers include WFO President Arnold Puech d'Alissac, ISF President Arthur Santosh Attavar, and Turkey's Deputy Minister of Agriculture Dr. Ahmet Bağcı, addressing topics ranging from local agricultural development to global trends.
The fair features 23 sessions, covering subjects such as "Turkish Agriculture: Past, Present, and Future," "Sustainable Agriculture and Women in Agriculture," "Agricultural Irrigation and Green Impact," and "Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture."
Two new conference stages highlight innovation and sustainability. The Innovation Stage focuses on smart farming technologies, digitalization, and agritech entrepreneurship, while the Sustainability Stage tackles climate change, green farming practices, and sustainable food systems. Complementary events like the Plant Breeding Project Market and ATSO GrowTech Agricultural Innovation Awards promote innovation across the sector.
