In 2024, Turkey’s export landscape was characterized by a diverse range of products. The top ten export categories were:
- Vehicles and Vehicle Parts: Leading the exports, this category accounted for approximately 11.5% of Turkey’s total exports, valued at around $29.46 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Boilers, Machinery, and Mechanical Appliances: Representing 8.7% of total exports, this sector contributed about $22.35 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Precious Stones, Metals, Pearls, and Other Precious Gems: This category made up 5.3% of exports, totaling approximately $13.57 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Electrical Machinery and Equipment: Accounting for 5.1% of exports, with a value of around $13.18 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Mineral Fuels, Mineral Oils, and Products of Their Distillation: Comprising 4.0% of total exports, this sector was valued at about $10.19 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Knitted and Crocheted Articles: This textile category represented 3.8% of exports, amounting to approximately $9.93 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Articles of Iron and Steel: Contributing 3.76% to the export portfolio, valued at around $9.62 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Plastics and Plastic Articles: This sector accounted for 3.7% of exports, totaling about $9.48 billion. (exportimportdata)
- Iron and Steel: Representing 3.43% of total exports, with a value of approximately $8.79 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions)
- Non-Knitted and Crocheted Articles: This category made up 2.92% of exports, amounting to around $7.48 billion. (Seair Exim Solutions+1exportimportdata+1)
These figures highlight Turkey’s robust and varied export economy, with significant contributions from the automotive, machinery, precious metals, and textile sectors.
Vehicles and vehicle parts are Turkey’s largest export category, accounting for 11.5% of total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $29.46 billion. The country is a major automotive manufacturing hub, supplying both finished vehicles and components to global markets.
Key Turkish Automotive Exports:
- Passenger Cars – Turkey is a key producer for brands like Toyota, Ford, Fiat, Renault, and Hyundai.
- Commercial Vehicles – Includes trucks, buses, and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).
- Auto Parts and Components – Includes engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical systems.
- Tires and Rubber Parts – Produced by major companies like Brisa (Lassa) and Petlas.
- Batteries and EV Components – Turkey is expanding in electric vehicle (EV) technology and battery production.
Major Markets for Turkish Vehicles and Parts:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, France, Italy, and Spain are top buyers.
- United Kingdom – A significant importer of Turkish-made Ford and Toyota vehicles.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – Countries like Egypt and UAE buy commercial vehicles.
- United States – Imports auto parts and select commercial vehicles.
Turkey’s automotive industry benefits from strong infrastructure, skilled labor, and proximity to key markets. It is also investing in electric and hybrid vehicle production, including the TOGG, Turkey’s first domestic EV brand.
Boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances are Turkey’s second-largest export category, accounting for 8.7% of total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $22.35 billion. This sector includes a wide range of industrial machinery, heating systems, and mechanical equipment used in manufacturing, energy, and construction.
Key Turkish Exports in This Category:
- Industrial Machinery – Includes manufacturing equipment, CNC machines, and automation systems.
- Boilers and Heating Systems – Turkey is a major producer of industrial and residential boilers, water heaters, and central heating systems.
- Pumps, Compressors, and Turbines – Used in oil & gas, water treatment, and energy industries.
- Construction and Mining Machinery – Excavators, loaders, and specialized equipment for road construction and mining.
- Food Processing Machinery – Turkey exports bakery equipment, dairy processing machines, and packaging systems.
- Textile and Garment Machinery – Key supplier for textile-producing countries in Europe and Asia.
- Agricultural Machinery – Tractors, irrigation systems, and farm equipment for global agribusiness markets.
Major Markets for Turkish Machinery Exports:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands are major buyers.
- Russia and CIS Countries – Turkey exports industrial equipment to Russia, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan.
- Middle East and Africa – Strong demand from UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
- United States – A growing market for high-quality industrial machinery and heating systems.
Turkey’s machinery sector is known for its cost-effective manufacturing, skilled workforce, and technological advancements. The country is also investing in smart manufacturing and energy-efficient machinery to boost global competitiveness.
Precious stones, metals, pearls, and other precious gems represent 5.3% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $13.57 billion. This category includes gold, silver, diamonds, and other high-value metals, making Turkey a key player in the global jewelry and precious metals market.
Key Turkish Exports in This Category:
- Gold (Refined and Unwrought) – Turkey is a major exporter of refined gold, especially to the Middle East and Europe.
- Silver and Silverware – Includes investment-grade silver and silver jewelry.
- Diamonds and Gemstones – Both raw and processed diamonds, as well as semi-precious stones.
- Jewelry and Ornaments – Turkey is known for its gold and silver jewelry, including traditional Ottoman designs.
- Platinum and Other Precious Metals – Used in industrial applications, jewelry, and investment markets.
Major Markets for Turkish Precious Metals and Jewelry:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – A top buyer of gold and jewelry.
- European Union (EU) – Countries like Germany, Italy, and the UK import Turkish gold and silver products.
- United States – A growing market for Turkish-designed jewelry.
- India and China – Strong demand for gold and diamonds.
Turkey’s Grand Bazaar and Istanbul Jewelry Show are major global hubs for gold and gemstone trading. The country benefits from a strong tradition in jewelry-making, competitive pricing, and access to raw materials.
Electrical machinery and equipment account for 5.1% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $13.18 billion. This sector includes power generation equipment, electrical components, and consumer electronics, making Turkey a key supplier to Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Key Turkish Exports in Electrical Machinery and Equipment:
- Cables and Wiring Systems – Includes power cables, fiber-optic cables, and industrial wiring.
- Transformers and Power Distribution Equipment – Used in electric grids, renewable energy projects, and industrial power systems.
- Electric Motors and Generators – Turkey produces high-efficiency motors and generators for industrial and commercial use.
- Household Appliances – Brands like Arçelik (Beko), Vestel, and Simfer export refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens worldwide.
- Batteries and Energy Storage Systems – A growing sector with lithium-ion battery production for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage.
- Lighting Equipment – Includes LED lighting, streetlights, and industrial lighting solutions.
Major Markets for Turkish Electrical Equipment:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Italy, and France import Turkish electrical components and household appliances.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – Countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt import power distribution equipment and cables.
- United States – A growing market for Turkish home appliances and industrial electrical equipment.
- Russia and Central Asia – Imports electrical machinery and automation systems from Turkey.
Turkey’s electrical machinery sector is diversifying into smart technology, renewable energy components, and electric vehicle infrastructure, making it a competitive global player.
Mineral fuels, mineral oils, and products of their distillation account for 4.0% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $10.19 billion. This category includes refined petroleum, natural gas, and other fuel-related products.
Key Turkish Exports in This Category:
- Refined Petroleum Products – Includes diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel produced in Turkey’s refineries.
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) – Used for heating, cooking, and automotive fuel.
- Bitumen and Asphalt – Essential for road construction and industrial applications.
- Lubricating Oils and Greases – Used in automotive and industrial machinery.
- Petrochemical Derivatives – Includes naphtha, paraffin, and petroleum coke, used in plastics and chemical production.
Major Markets for Turkish Mineral Fuels and Oils:
- European Union (EU) – Italy, Spain, and Greece import refined petroleum products and petrochemicals.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – Countries like Iraq, UAE, and Egypt buy diesel, lubricants, and bitumen.
- Balkan and Caucasus Region – Bulgaria, Georgia, and Azerbaijan import fuel and petroleum derivatives.
Turkey plays a strategic role in global energy trade due to its location between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The country is also investing in renewable energy and reducing its reliance on imported crude oil by expanding its refining and petrochemical industries.
Knitted and crocheted articles account for 3.8% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $9.93 billion. Turkey is one of the world’s leading textile and apparel exporters, with high-quality knitwear production for global fashion brands.
Key Turkish Exports in Knitted and Crocheted Articles:
- T-Shirts and Polo Shirts – A major export category, with shipments to Europe and the U.S.
- Sweaters and Cardigans – Made from cotton, wool, and synthetic fibers, catering to global demand.
- Undergarments and Lingerie – Includes men’s, women’s, and children’s innerwear.
- Sportswear and Activewear – Turkey supplies brands with yoga pants, leggings, and performance fabrics.
- Socks and Hosiery – A fast-growing segment, with Turkey being a top global sock producer.
- Children’s and Baby Clothing – Includes bodysuits, rompers, and baby knitwear, exported worldwide.
Major Markets for Turkish Knitwear Exports:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Spain, and the UK are the largest importers of Turkish knitwear.
- United States – Growing demand for fast fashion and sustainable textile options.
- Russia and CIS Countries – A key market for affordable and premium knitwear.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – Turkey supplies fashion retailers in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt.
Why Turkey is a Global Leader in Knitwear:
- High Production Capacity – Turkey is home to advanced textile factories and skilled workers.
- Sustainable & Organic Fabrics – A growing exporter of organic cotton and eco-friendly textiles.
- Fast Shipping & Proximity to Europe – Turkish manufacturers offer quick turnaround for fashion brands.
Plastics and plastic articles account for 3.7% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $9.48 billion. Turkey is a major producer and exporter of raw plastic materials, packaging products, and industrial plastic components.
Key Turkish Exports in Plastics and Plastic Articles:
- Plastic Packaging Materials – Includes bottles, containers, and films for food, cosmetics, and industrial use.
- Plastic Pipes and Fittings – Used in construction, agriculture, and infrastructure projects.
- Household and Industrial Plastic Goods – Kitchenware, furniture, and storage containers.
- Automotive Plastic Parts – Components used in cars, trucks, and industrial vehicles.
- Construction and Building Plastics – Includes PVC doors, windows, and insulation materials.
- Medical and Healthcare Plastics – Items such as syringes, tubing, and packaging for pharmaceuticals.
- Plastic Raw Materials and Resins – Exported to plastics manufacturers worldwide.
Major Markets for Turkish Plastic Exports:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Italy, and France import packaging materials and plastic components.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt buy construction plastics and packaging.
- Russia and Central Asia – Turkey supplies plastic raw materials and industrial plastic products.
- United States – Growing demand for specialty plastics and packaging solutions.
Why Turkey is a Key Global Player in Plastics:
- Strong Petrochemical Industry – Turkey produces high-quality plastic resins and polymers.
- Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities – Competitive in automotive, construction, and medical plastics.
- Strategic Location – Fast shipping access to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Iron and steel account for 3.5% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $8.96 billion. Turkey is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of raw steel, finished steel products, and construction materials.
Key Turkish Exports in Iron and Steel:
- Flat-Rolled Steel – Used in automotive, construction, and machinery manufacturing.
- Steel Bars and Rods – Essential for reinforced concrete structures and industrial applications.
- Pipes and Tubes – Widely used in oil & gas, construction, and water distribution.
- Structural Steel – Includes beams, channels, and angles for large infrastructure projects.
- Coated and Galvanized Steel – Used in roofing, appliances, and automotive parts.
- Wire and Mesh Products – Exported for fencing, construction, and industrial use.
Major Markets for Turkish Iron and Steel Exports:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Italy, and Spain import construction and automotive steel.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia buy reinforcement bars and pipes.
- United States – Imports coated steel and structural components.
- Africa and Latin America – Demand for Turkish steel in construction and manufacturing.
Why Turkey is a Leading Global Steel Exporter:
- Strong Production Capacity – Over 40 million tons of crude steel produced annually.
- Competitive Pricing – Due to efficient production processes and low labor costs.
- Strategic Location – Close to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa for quick shipping.
Non-knitted and crocheted articles account for 3.4% of Turkey’s total exports in 2024, valued at approximately $8.71 billion. This category includes woven apparel and textiles, making Turkey a key global supplier for fashion brands, retailers, and manufacturers.
Key Turkish Exports in Non-Knitted and Crocheted Articles:
- Woven Shirts and Blouses – Includes cotton, linen, and synthetic fabric shirts for men and women.
- Trousers, Pants, and Jeans – Turkey is a major producer of denim for global brands.
- Suits, Jackets, and Blazers – High-quality formal and business wear.
- Dresses and Skirts – Exported to fast fashion brands and luxury retailers.
- Coats and Outerwear – Includes trench coats, wool coats, and synthetic outerwear.
- Workwear and Uniforms – Widely used in industrial, medical, and hospitality sectors.
- Children’s and Baby Clothing – Popular exports due to organic cotton production and quality fabrics.
Major Markets for Turkish Non-Knitted Apparel Exports:
- European Union (EU) – Germany, Spain, the UK, and France are top importers.
- United States – Growing demand for denim, workwear, and fast fashion products.
- Russia and CIS Countries – Key market for casual and formal wear.
- Middle East and North Africa (MENA) – Turkey supplies high-quality woven apparel to Gulf countries.
Why Turkey is a Global Leader in Woven Apparel Exports:
- Strong Textile Industry – Advanced factories producing for brands like Zara, H&M, and Levi’s.
- Sustainable and Organic Production – Increasing demand for eco-friendly cotton and ethical fashion.
- Fast Shipping & Proximity to Europe – Short lead times for fashion brands.