24.09.2025 13:00
Sante Gıda, one of Turkey's leading dried fig exporters, has filed for concordat following the return of its products from Europe due to aflatoxin issues. The decision made by the 25-year-old company affects more than 200 employees and the regional economy, while industry representatives have called for government support to address food safety issues.
Operating in the Bozyurt neighborhood of Nazilli district in Aydın, Sante Gıda, which is among Turkey's most important dried fig exporters, has filed for concordat due to difficulties experienced in exports.
AFLATOXIN CRISIS IN EXPORTS
The company, which had its products returned due to aflatoxin and ochratoxin contamination in the European market, suffered significant financial losses. This situation has led the company, which has an important place in the sector with 25 years of experience, into the concordat process.
PRODUCTION IN A 5,000 SQUARE METER FACILITY
Sante Gıda was producing 1,500 tons of conventional dried figs, 750 tons of organic dried figs, and 250 tons of dried apricots annually in its modern facility of 5,000 square meters. The company was exporting to 14 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, the UK, the USA, China, and Australia.
200 EMPLOYEES AND IMPACT ON THE REGIONAL ECONOMY
The concordat decision of the family business, which has been operating for three generations, negatively affected more than 200 employees and the regional economy. It was noted that the problems caused by the European Union's strict food safety inspections not only put Sante Gıda in a difficult position but also affected other exporters.
RESTRUCTURING STEP
Company officials stated that the concordat process is a step to ensure business continuity and restructure debts. They expressed that they aim to maintain their position in the sector with packaging solutions suitable for customer demands and noted that strong collaborations with producers would also provide support during this process.
CALL FOR SUPPORT FROM THE SECTOR
While it was pointed out that other exporting companies in the region are facing similar problems, sector representatives emphasized that government support is essential to find a solution to the aflatoxin issue.