Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
6th INTERNATIONAL SELÇUK SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CONGRESS, Konya, Türkiye, 16 - 17 Mart 2025, ss.486-513, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
The use of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) dates back to ancient times, as humans have utilized
these plants for therapeutic and various other purposes. MAPs are also widely used in the production
of essential oils and solvent extracts, which are key ingredients in food, cosmetics, and
pharmaceuticals. These value-added products have gained commercial importance in both domestic
and international markets. Turkey has a significant advantage in this sector due to its rich flora and
favorable geopolitical position. The production, cultivation, and export of MAPs and essential oils
are well-established in the country. In recent years, global demand for these products has surged,
primarily due to their health benefits and natural composition. Consumer preference for natural
ingredients, along with the rising interest in alternative medicine—especially after the COVID-19
pandemic—has further boosted their popularity. The primary aim of this study is to identify the key
factors influencing the export performance of the MAPs and essential oils sector, including the
drivers, barriers, and challenges in export operations. Interviews were conducted with 13 companies
in İzmir province engaged in export activities within this sector. The study analyzes the market
potential and export performance of MAPs and essential oils based on the collected data. The key
drivers identified for successful export performance include marketing strategies, production service
quality, supply chain efficiency, and networking capabilities.