The cabbage fields of Erciş, Van, are coming alive as the harvest season kicks off, bringing the region’s impressive, large-sized cabbages into local and neighboring markets. The cabbages, sown in June and matured by October, are a vital source of income for local farmers, contributing both to household economies and the broader agricultural trade in the area.
Erciş cabbages are notable for their size, often growing to be two or three times larger than those found in western Turkey. This unique characteristic attracts customers from nearby regions, including Muş, Bitlis, and Ağrı, where demand for cabbage used in sarmas (stuffed cabbage rolls) and pickles remains high. Currently, a single head of cabbage sells for 50 to 80 Turkish Lira, providing some financial return for farmers, though concerns over market stagnation are growing.
Economic and Market Challenges
Despite the promising harvest, farmers like İbrahim Canpolat are experiencing significant economic strain. While last year cabbage prices hovered around 80 TL, current market conditions are less favorable, with limited opportunities for broader distribution. As a result, many growers find it difficult to sell their produce, leading to financial losses. “The market is incredibly sluggish this year,” Canpolat laments, pointing out that local sales alone cannot support farmers when export and distribution channels fail to deliver.
Calls for Investment and Market Infrastructure
Farmers in Erciş have long sought support from regional authorities to improve agricultural infrastructure. A major proposal gaining momentum is the establishment of a local pickling factory. Such a facility would not only create jobs but also stabilize demand for cabbages, transforming perishable produce into value-added products. “We desperately need investment in a pickle factory and a covered market,” Canpolat emphasizes. These investments could significantly alleviate market volatility and provide steady income for local producers.
Another suggestion is expanding financial support for farmers, whether through subsidies or marketing programs, to enhance the local agricultural economy. The establishment of a covered wholesale market (kapalı hal) could also facilitate better distribution, reducing crop wastage and improving farmers’ bargaining power.
As Erciş’s cabbage harvest continues, the success of the season depends not only on the size and quality of the produce but also on addressing the critical market challenges that local farmers face. Without investment in infrastructure and strategic market solutions, the potential of this vital crop may not be fully realized. The call for a pickle factory and enhanced local market facilities reflects a broader need to support sustainable agricultural practices and economic stability in Van’s farming communities.
