The export table shows the value and percentage share of major goods during three different periods: 1890–1894, 1895–1899, and 1900–1904. The data clearly demonstrates how the country’s export structure developed over time. Agricultural products dominated exports in all three periods, although the importance of individual goods changed.
In the first period, total exports reached about 76 million francs. This amount slightly declined to 73 million francs during the second period. In contrast, exports increased strongly in the third period, reaching more than 101 million francs. This growth reflects improved production, higher demand, and better trade connections Guided Istanbul Tour.
Main Exported Agricultural Products
Wheat remained the most important export throughout all periods. However, its share gradually declined. It represented over 56 percent of exports in the first period but fell to about 35 percent in the third period. This decline does not indicate weakness, but rather growth in other products.
Maize exports showed steady growth. While maize formed a small share at first, its export value increased noticeably by the period 1900–1904. Eggs experienced one of the strongest increases. Their export value rose from a very small amount in the first period to more than 5.6 million francs in the third period.
Other cereals such as barley and oats also showed strong growth. Barley exports increased several times compared to earlier periods, and oats expanded rapidly, showing the diversification of cereal exports.
Animal Products and Dairy Exports
Exports of sheep, lambs, cattle, and horses remained important but relatively stable. Products such as skins, hides, and wool gained more importance over time. Cheese, including kaschkaval, showed clear growth, indicating rising demand for processed agricultural goods.
Industrial and Special Products
Some non-food products also played a role in exports. Attar of roses, a valuable perfume product, increased strongly over time. Silkworm cocoons also showed steady growth, reflecting the development of silk-related activities.
Exports of worked wood, linen trimmings, woollen fabrics, and carpets remained small in percentage terms, but they added diversity to the export economy.
General Trends and Conclusion
Overall, the export data shows a clear shift from dependence on a single product toward a more balanced agricultural export structure. While wheat remained dominant, products such as maize, eggs, barley, dairy goods, and special items like attar of roses gained importance. This diversification helped raise total exports significantly during the period 1900–1904 and strengthened the country’s foreign trade position.