Türkiye may emerge as alternative import hub for US, China: Trade Minister
File photo shows a Turkish port with container ships, accessed on Nov. 3, 2024. (AA Photo)
Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat stated that Türkiye could become an alternative destination for both U.S. and Chinese imports as global trade shifts amid rising protectionist policies and retaliatory tariffs.
“Our exporters, who successfully compete in global markets and steadily increase their market share through high-quality products and services, strengthen our confidence in the future,” Bolat said.
Speaking to business-focused dunya.com, Bolat emphasized the Turkish government’s efforts to direct exporters toward alternative markets and enhance Türkiye’s competitiveness in international trade.
US among ‘Target Countries’ for Turkish exports
Bolat explained that every year, the Turkish Ministry of Trade conducts an assessment of global political and economic conditions to determine which countries present the most promising opportunities for Turkish exporters. This aims to help Turkish businesses diversify their export markets, and reduce dependency on specific regions.
Underlining that the U.S. has been included among the 55 “Target Countries” for 2025, Bolat highlighted the expanding trade volume with Washington.
“In 2024, with a 10% year-on-year increase, the U.S. ranked second among our export destinations, reaching an export volume of $16.3 billion. The U.S. holds a significant position both in our Distant Countries Strategy and among our target markets.”
Bolat highlighted that U.S. protectionist policies, introduced under former President Donald Trump, have reshaped global trade dynamics, posing potential challenges for emerging markets.
“Türkiye’s strategies in this process will be crucial in minimizing risks and seizing new opportunities,” he added.
