This article explains the changes in exports by comparing the period 1900–1904 with the two earlier periods 1890–1894 and 1895–1899. The figures show whether exports increased or decreased and by how much. Overall, the data proves that exports grew strongly during the period 1900–1904, even though some goods declined.
Major Agricultural Export Trends
The most important export products were agricultural goods. Wheat showed a decline when compared with both earlier periods. This decrease explains why wheat lost part of its dominant position in total exports. However, this fall was balanced by strong growth in other crops Guided Istanbul Tour.
Maize exports increased greatly. Compared with the first period, maize exports rose by more than 50 percent, and compared with the second period, they grew by more than 100 percent. This shows a clear shift toward maize production and export.
Eggs experienced one of the strongest increases. Their export value grew sharply compared with both earlier periods, which reflects higher foreign demand and improved transport and storage methods.
Growth in Cereals and Processed Foods
Other cereals such as barley and oats also expanded strongly. Barley exports rose by several hundred percent compared with earlier periods. Oats showed extremely high growth rates, although from a small base.
Wheat flour, a processed product, recorded major growth. This suggests that the country did not only export raw grain but also began exporting more processed food products. Cheese, including ordinary cheese and kaschkaval, also showed steady increases.
Animal Products and By-Products
Exports of sheep, goats, cattle, and their skins increased overall, although some years showed small declines. Tanned skins and worked hides performed especially well, showing the development of basic processing industries.
Products such as sausages and dry salted meat (pastarma) gained importance. This reflects growing foreign demand for preserved meat products.
Industrial and Special Goods
Some non-food exports showed strong growth. Attar of roses increased greatly, becoming an important high-value export. Silk-related products, including raw silk and silkworm waste, also recorded notable growth.
Exports of wood, charcoal, garden seeds, wool, carpets, and copper fluctuated but generally increased over time, adding diversity to the export economy.
Overall Export Performance
The total value of exports rose significantly during 1900–1904 compared with the previous periods. Despite declines in a few goods, strong growth in many agricultural and semi-processed products led to an overall expansion.
In conclusion, the export data shows a clear trend toward diversification and growth. While wheat declined, many other products expanded rapidly. This balanced structure helped strengthen foreign trade and reduce dependence on a single export product.