The opening ceremony of the 14th Agriculture, Agricultural Technologies, and Livestock Fair (GAPTARIM) was held with the participation of Gaziantep’s provincial protocol. Organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, in cooperation with the Gaziantep Chamber of Industry (GSO) and Akort Exhibition, and supported by the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, Gaziantep Commodity Exchange (GTB), Gaziantep Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, Gaziantep Chamber of Agriculture, and KOSGEB, the fair opened its doors to visitors at the Middle East Exhibition Center (OFM).

The ceremony was attended by Acting Governor of Gaziantep Hüseyin Kaptan, former Gaziantep MP Nejat Koçer, Deputy Mayor of Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Erdem Güzelbey, Ambassador Hakkı Emre Yunt (Gaziantep Representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Şehitkamil District Governor Ömer Hilmi Yamlı, GSO Chairman Adnan Ünverdi, GTB Vice Chairman Enver Çokay, and various institutional directors.

Key Remarks from the Opening Ceremony

Hüseyin Kaptan – Acting Governor of Gaziantep

Kaptan emphasized that Turkey is a global hub for agricultural production.

"Turkey holds a significant share in global sector exports, which is a vital factor in closing the current account deficit. The contribution of Gaziantep’s farmers and the industry is immense. Gaziantep is one of Turkey’s most important centers for both agriculture and agro-based industry. This fair is of great importance for our farmers to witness new technologies and strengthen face-to-face communication."

Nejat Koçer – Former Gaziantep MP & Former GSO Chairman

Koçer expressed his wishes for the growth of local exhibitions:

"The agricultural sector holds a strategic position globally. We appreciate these organizations by the Gaziantep Chamber of Industry. If we work hand-in-hand and support one another, I hope we will celebrate the 24th and 34th editions of this fair in the future."

Adnan Ünverdi – Chairman of the Gaziantep Chamber of Industry (GSO)

Ünverdi highlighted the increasing importance of food security due to climate change and global conflicts.

"The rising star of the new era is the agriculture and food sector. In a world where those who manage food manage the world, self-sufficient countries will always remain strong. During the pandemic, Gaziantep became the city that 'fed the world' through its exports. In 2023, agricultural industry and cereal products surpassed textiles to become our largest export sector with a 35.3% share. We rank 2nd after Istanbul in food and agricultural exports."

Mehmet Karayılan – Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry

Karayılan noted that fairs are essential for urban development:

"This fair continues dynamically every year in our city, which is the capital of agro-based industry. We desire to see these organizations grow even more comprehensively to bring producers and sector representatives together."

Orhan Akkaya – Board Member of Akort Exhibition

Akkaya shared impressive statistics regarding the event:

"The 14th GAPTARIM Fair represents 20 different countries and 25 different cities, featuring nearly 300 brands and thousands of products. It is the largest traditional agricultural event in the region. Beyond its economic contributions, it serves as an agricultural festival that strengthens social interaction."

Event Details

Following the speeches, the protocol members toured the fair and received information about the showcased projects. The fair will remain open to visitors between February 21–24.