Donald Trump’s tariffs may boost Türkiye’s industry: Experts

President-elect Donald Trump‘s protectionist trade policies and additional tariffs could offer advantages to developing countries, with experts saying Türkiye’s industrial sector stands to benefit.

Impact of tariffs on European and Chinese trade

Sant Manukyan, manager of International Capital Markets at Türkiye-based IS Investment, told Anadolu that Trump’s tariffs on Europe could cause a 1% decline in the region’s growth.

“While a decline in the growth of the region may affect Turkish exports, tariffs on China may positively impact Türkiye to replace China in certain export items, since Türkiye is a producing economy,” he said.

Global ramifications of US trade policies

Seyit Ardic, chairman of the Ankara Chamber of Industry, said Trump’s victory has brought the US’s future policies into focus, which will have global ramifications.

Ardic explained that rising tariffs and protectionist policies will make global competition tougher and slow down growth, warning that global trade as we know it may change due to Trump’s harsh stance against China and the EU.

He noted that the US will likely apply “invisible barriers” to pressure China and boost its competitiveness in high-tech, renewable energy, and other sectors.

“Trump’s policies may positively influence the foreign trade of emerging economies like Türkiye, as his policies aim to lower interest rates and increase spending and investments, while the US further limiting Chinese imports can create opportunities for Türkiye as a supplier country,” he said.

“Though, there is a possibility of a contraction in the global trade if countries retaliate against the US’ future policies and the BRICS organization acts together, as the further expansion of protectionist trade policies can disrupt global trade and supply chains,” he added.

Türkiye’s perspective on Trump’s trade approach

Sahin Tin, deputy chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s Industry, Trade, Energy, Natural Resources, Information, and Technology Commission, stated that Trump and his administration prioritize peace, increased industrial production, and trade.

“We view Trump’s policies on the world and the economy as positive for Türkiye and Turkish industrialists, as production and trade are significantly important for the Turkish economy and its business community; however, more importantly, it is of great importance to end the war in Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, and to rebuild their cities and to prevent innocent people’s deaths,” he said.