DRIED TOMATO AS A NEW POTENTIAL IN EXPORT AND DOMESTIC MARKET DIVERSIFICATION IN TURKEY

Dried tomatoes have gained much interest in the last decade as a new potential in both export and domestic marked diversification in Turkey. It can be regarded as a new tool in overcoming export bottleneck which paste tomatoes are confronted with in the last few years. Further, it can be adopted as a new food source in diversifying the domestic market. The future of dried tomato production in Turkey regarding characteristics of suitable production areas, improved production techniques and adaptation of new suitable varieties have been discussed and research needs outlined.