Çermik Pepper

Çermik Pepper is a red-colored, thin-skinned variety of pepper cultivated in the Diyarbakır district of Çermik. After drying, it is ground and used in the production of flaked pepper, powdered pepper, and pepper paste. It has a spicy flavor profile.

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The production area of Çermik Pepper is limited to the Çermik district of Diyarbakır. In addition to local market sales, approximately 250 kilograms per week are exported to several European countries, primarily Germany, Switzerland and Hungary. Annual production reaches about 1,600 tons and is cultivated on an area of 400 dunams.

On 8 May 2020, the Çermik District Governorship submitted an application for geographical indication registration to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, and registration was completed on 12 April 2021. The registration covers the geographical boundaries of cultivation, the physical and chemical properties of the product, the production process and the monitoring criteria. This document officially recognizes the uniqueness and regional characteristics of Çermik Pepper.

The production of Çermik Pepper begins with soil preparation; the land is plowed and fertilized. Seedlings are planted in May. The plants are regularly watered and weeded during their growth phase. The fruits are harvested by hand, typically in September and October, when they have turned red and reached full maturity.

^{Çermik Pepper (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾

After harvest, the peppers are separated from their stems and spread out under the sun to dry using natural methods. Once drying is complete, the peppers are pounded, sieved and ground. The resulting product is packaged and sold as flaked pepper, powdered pepper or pepper paste.

The production and processing of Çermik Pepper are monitored and controlled by a supervisory board composed of representatives from the Çermik District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the Çermik Municipality and the Diyarbakır Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This board ensures that production complies with the standards specified in the geographical indication registration document. Monitoring activities cover the entire process from cultivation to packaging and guarantee that the product meets quality, hygiene and uniqueness criteria.

Çermik Pepper is cultivated on approximately 400 dunams, with annual production reaching about 1,600 tons. The product is exported to European countries such as Germany, Switzerland and Hungary, with an average weekly export volume of 250 kilograms. This production and export capacity enhances economic activity in the district and contributes to agricultural employment. Additionally, women’s entrepreneur cooperatives are integrated into the production process, providing economic support to the local social structure. Production and export activities contribute to diversifying the regional economy.

^{Çermik Pepper (}Çermik District Governorship⁾

After drying and grinding, Çermik Pepper is used in various forms. It is widely preferred as flaked pepper and powdered pepper in cooking. It is also an important raw material in the production of pepper paste. It is used directly to enhance the flavor of many dishes in the regional cuisine. Due to its high pungency, it is used as a spice in various dishes and sauces. Çermik Pepper is used in kitchens both fresh and processed and plays a key role in traditional recipes.

Çermik Pepper is featured in local product promotion fairs and markets in Diyarbakır and the Çermik district. The product is promoted with support from the Çermik District Governorship, Diyarbakır Governorship and relevant agricultural institutions. Thanks to its geographical indication registration, the product’s uniqueness and quality have been officially documented. Marketing activities include domestic distribution as well as exports to European countries such as Germany, Switzerland and Hungary. These exports are typically facilitated by local producers and diaspora communities, contributing to the product’s international recognition. Promotion campaigns aim to enhance market competitiveness by leveraging the advantages provided by the geographical indication registration. Production and marketing processes are supported through the participation of women’s entrepreneur cooperatives.