import from turkey

Which Country Should be Targeted with Turkish Export in the First Place?

STARTINFORUM Business, Economy, Export from Turkey , , , 0 Comment

Considering all factors – historical trade performance, current strategic priorities, economic conditions, and recent government statements for 2025 – Germany should be targeted with Turkish export in the first place.

Here’s why:

  • Largest and Most Consistent Export Market: Germany has consistently been Turkey’s number one export destination for many years, including in March 2025 and for the January-March 2025 period. This indicates deep-rooted trade relationships, established supply chains, and a reliable demand for Turkish goods. It’s a market where Turkey already has a significant competitive advantage and strong infrastructure in place for exports.

  • Stable and Large Economy: Germany boasts Europe’s largest economy, offering a vast and stable market for diverse Turkish products, from automotive and machinery to textiles and food. Even with global economic fluctuations, Germany provides a strong foundation for Turkish exports.

  • Strategic Partnership: The trade relationship between Turkey and Germany goes beyond mere transactions; it’s a strategic partnership with strong industrial ties (e.g., German automotive companies relying on Turkish suppliers).

  • EU Access: As a member of the EU, exporting to Germany also facilitates indirect access to the broader European Union market due to the Customs Union agreement. While there are ongoing discussions about modernizing this agreement, the existing framework provides significant advantages.

While Turkey is aggressively pursuing new and high-growth markets in Central Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, these efforts are aimed at diversification and long-term growth. However, in the “first place” for immediate and substantial export volume, maintaining and strengthening the existing powerhouse relationship with Germany is paramount.

Germany and Turkey are linked by especially wide-ranging and close relations in which the approximately three million people of Turkish descent living in Germany play an important role. 

Germany is Turkey’s most important trading partner and one of the country’s biggest foreign investors.

Other Strong Contenders for Targeted Export Growth (But Not “First Place”)

  • United States and United Kingdom: These are consistently in Turkey’s top export markets and offer significant potential for growth across various sectors, especially as Turkey seeks to expand its higher-value and defense exports.

  • Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan: These Central Asian countries are strategic long-term targets due to their high growth potential, cultural ties, and Turkey’s specific trade volume targets (e.g., $5 billion with Uzbekistan, $10 billion with Kazakhstan). They represent future “first places” as part of a diversification strategy, but Germany holds the current top spot in terms of sheer volume and established trade.

  • African and Gulf Countries: These are key for future growth and market diversification, especially for defense, construction, and consumer goods.

In conclusion, for immediate and substantial export focus, the priority should remain on Germany, while simultaneously investing in the promising growth markets for future diversification and long-term gains.

For guidance in Turkish production as well as its marketing in different countries of the world, please feel free to contact us.

How can Turkish Goods Compete with China in Central Asia?

STARTINFORUM Business, Economy, Export from Turkey , , , , 0 Comment

Competing with China in Central Asia is a significant challenge for Turkish goods, given China’s massive production capacity, aggressive pricing, and extensive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure investments.

However, Turkey possesses several inherent advantages that it can leverage to effectively compete.

Diplomatic relations between the Republic of Turkey and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) were established in 1971.

Bilateral relations have been progressing steadily since the 1980s with the opening-up of both countries.

1. Quality Perception and Brand Image

  • Turkish Advantage: In many product categories, Turkish goods are perceived to have higher quality, better design, and adhere to more stringent European standards compared to mass-produced Chinese goods. This is particularly true for textiles, apparel, certain machinery, home appliances, and food products. Consumers in Central Asia, as their purchasing power increases, are often willing to pay a premium for higher quality and durability.

  • Chinese Challenge: While China offers a vast range of products at various quality levels, the general perception in many markets, including Central Asia, can still lean towards lower quality for the cheapest Chinese imports.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Emphasize “Made in Turkey” as a mark of quality, reliability, and modern design. Invest in branding, marketing, and after-sales service to reinforce this image. Target segments that prioritize quality over just the lowest price.

2. Geographic Proximity and Logistics (Middle Corridor)

  • Turkish Advantage: Turkey is geographically closer to Central Asia than China. While not directly bordering, Turkey is actively developing the “Middle Corridor” (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) that connects Europe and China via Turkey, the Caucasus, and the Caspian Sea. This route significantly reduces transit times compared to traditional sea routes (e.g., 10-15 days vs. 35-45 days). This means faster delivery, reduced inventory costs, and quicker response to market changes for Turkish goods.

  • Chinese Challenge: While China has massive investments in land routes through Central Asia via BRI, the sheer distance and potential for bottlenecks at various borders can still make overall transit times long for certain goods, especially those destined for the western parts of Central Asia.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Continuously invest in and promote the Middle Corridor. Improve customs procedures and border crossings. Offer integrated logistics solutions that highlight faster and more efficient delivery times. This advantage is particularly strong for time-sensitive goods.

3. Cultural and Historical Ties (Soft Power)

  • Turkish Advantage: Turkey shares deep historical, linguistic, and cultural ties with the Turkic-speaking Central Asian republics (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan). This fosters a natural affinity for Turkish products and a sense of trust. Turkish TV series, music, and educational programs are popular, subtly building brand recognition and preference. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS), led by Turkey, further strengthens these bonds.

  • Chinese Challenge: While China offers economic benefits, its cultural influence in Central Asia is less profound compared to Turkey’s.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Leverage this soft power. Participate in cultural events, establish educational exchange programs, and promote shared heritage. This can translate into stronger consumer loyalty and business relationships.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability

  • Turkish Advantage: Turkish manufacturers are often more flexible in terms of order sizes, customization, and adapting to specific market demands. They can offer quicker design changes and smaller batch production compared to large Chinese factories. This is particularly beneficial for niche markets or evolving consumer trends. Turkish companies are also known for flexible payment terms.

  • Chinese Challenge: While China offers immense scale, large Chinese manufacturers might be less flexible for smaller, customized orders.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Highlight agility and responsiveness to market needs. Offer tailored solutions and quicker lead times.

5. After-Sales Service and Support

  • Turkish Advantage: Due to geographical proximity and a more similar business culture, Turkish companies can often provide better after-sales service, technical support, and warranty provisions. This is crucial for complex machinery and electronics where long-term reliability and maintenance are important.

  • Chinese Challenge: For many low-cost Chinese goods, after-sales support can be limited or difficult to access.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Build strong local service networks, offer training, and ensure readily available spare parts. This builds trust and customer loyalty.

6. Diversification from Over-Reliance on China

  • Turkish Advantage: Central Asian countries are increasingly looking to diversify their economic partnerships and reduce over-reliance on any single external power, including China. Turkey presents a viable and attractive alternative for imports.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Position itself as a reliable, high-quality, and strategically aligned partner that helps Central Asian countries diversify their supply chains.

7. Preferential Trade Agreements and Investment

  • Turkish Advantage: Turkey has signed Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with countries like Uzbekistan, significantly reducing tariffs and making Turkish goods more competitive. Turkish direct investments in Central Asia also create a demand for Turkish goods and services within those projects.

  • Chinese Challenge: While China offers loans and investments through BRI, the terms can sometimes lead to debt concerns for recipient countries.

  • Strategy for Turkey: Promote and expand PTAs. Increase direct investment in local production and infrastructure, which naturally creates a market for Turkish intermediate goods and machinery.

In summary, to effectively compete with China in Central Asia, Turkey should focus on a multi-pronged strategy:

  • Leverage its strengths: Emphasize quality, design, brand reputation, and excellent after-sales service.
  • Exploit geographical advantages: Promote and utilize the Middle Corridor for faster and more cost-effective logistics.
  • Deepen cultural ties: Use soft power to build consumer preference and trust.
  • Be flexible and responsive: Offer customized solutions and agile supply chains.
  • Capitalize on diversification trends: Position Turkey as a strategic alternative for reliable and high-quality imports.
  • Utilize trade agreements and investment: Make Turkish goods more competitive through favorable tariffs and by embedding Turkish products in local projects.

While Chinese goods will always have a price advantage in many basic commodity categories, Turkey can win by targeting higher-value segments, offering better quality, faster delivery, and stronger relationships.

Which Goods From Turkey Should be Exported to Tajikistan?

STARTINFORUM Business, Economy , , , , 0 Comment

Turkey and Tajikistan share friendly and cooperative relations, backed by a legal framework of numerous treaties and protocols aimed at strengthening economic and trade ties. While Tajikistan’s economy faces challenges, it presents a growing market for Turkish goods due to ongoing development, a relatively undiversified local production base, and consumer demand.

Here are the goods from Turkey that should be targeted for export to Tajikistan, based on current trends, Tajikistan’s import needs, and Turkey’s export strengths.

I. Key Existing Export Categories (Continue and Expand)

Current trade data shows these are already strong performers for Turkish exports to Tajikistan:

  1. Textiles and Apparel:
    • Why: This is historically a top export category from Turkey to Tajikistan, including knitted and non-knitted apparel, other made textile articles, and textile floor coverings (carpets). Turkish textiles are known for their quality, design, and competitive pricing, appealing to consumer preferences.
    • Specifics: Ready-to-wear clothing (men’s, women’s, children’s), home textiles (bedding, towels), specialized fabrics, and carpets.
  2. Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, and Boilers:
    • Why: Tajikistan is investing in its industrial and infrastructure development, creating a consistent demand for various types of machinery and equipment.
    • Specifics: Industrial machinery, construction equipment, power generation machinery, and parts.
  3. Electrical and Electronic Equipment:
    • Why: As Tajikistan modernizes its infrastructure and industries, and as consumer spending potentially rises, demand for electrical and electronic goods increases.
    • Specifics: Home appliances, telecommunications equipment, various electronic devices, and electrical components.
  4. Plastics and Plastic Products:
    • Why: Used across various sectors, including packaging, construction, and consumer goods manufacturing.
    • Specifics: Plastic pipes, fittings, sheets, films, and various finished plastic articles.
  5. Furniture, Lighting, and Prefabricated Buildings:
    • Why: Driven by ongoing construction activities, both residential and commercial, and the development of new urban areas.
    • Specifics: Home and office furniture, lighting fixtures, and components for prefabricated structures.

II. High Potential Growth Areas (Leverage Development Priorities)

Tajikistan’s development goals and current economic structure indicate strong future demand in these areas:

  1. Construction Materials:
    • Why: Tajikistan is undertaking significant infrastructure projects (roads, housing, energy, especially the Roghun Dam), and its domestic capacity for construction materials is limited. Turkish companies have a strong track record in the contracting sector in Tajikistan.
    • Specifics: Iron and steel articles (rebar, structural steel), ceramic products (tiles, sanitary ware), glass and glassware, cement, plaster, and stone.
  2. Pharmaceutical Products:
    • Why: Tajikistan’s healthcare sector is undergoing development, and there’s a constant need for a wide range of medicines and medical supplies. Turkey is a robust producer of generic and branded pharmaceuticals.
    • Specifics: Packaged medicaments, bandages, medical consumables, and potentially some basic medical equipment.
  3. Food Products and Agricultural Inputs:
    • Why: Tajikistan imports a significant portion of its food needs, and there’s a push to modernize its agriculture.
    • Specifics:
      • Processed Foods: Confectionery, canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and various packaged food preparations.
      • Fresh Produce: Citrus fruits, other fruits and vegetables depending on seasonality and local production gaps.
      • Agricultural Machinery & Equipment: Small-scale farming equipment, irrigation systems, and agricultural processing machinery.
      • Fertilizers and Pesticides: To improve agricultural productivity.
  4. Vehicles and Parts:
    • Why: As the economy grows and transportation infrastructure improves, demand for both passenger and commercial vehicles, along with their parts, will increase.
  5. Miscellaneous Chemical Products & Cosmetics/Toiletries:
    • Why: Growing consumer markets and industrial needs.
    • Specifics: Soaps, lubricants, waxes, perfumes, cosmetics, and various industrial chemical products.

III. Niche or Emerging Opportunities

  • Defense Industry Products: Tajikistan recently ratified a military assistance agreement with Turkey, specifically mentioning potential purchases of “weapons, ammunition, UAVs and modern devices.” This opens a new avenue for defense exports, particularly drones (like the Bayraktar TB2), armored vehicles, and other military equipment where Turkey has become a global player.
  • Renewable Energy Technologies: Tajikistan has enormous hydropower potential and is focusing on developing its energy sector. Turkish expertise in renewable energy, especially in equipment and project development, could be valuable.
  • Digitalization and IT Services: As Tajikistan aims to digitalize its economy and public services (“single window” initiatives), Turkish IT solutions and software could find a market.

Factors Favoring Turkish Exports to Tajikistan

  • Strong Bilateral Relations: Over 30 treaties and protocols underpin cooperation, fostering a supportive environment for trade and investment.
  • Geographic Proximity and Connectivity: While not bordering, the Central Asian corridor via the Caspian Sea facilitates trade.
  • Cultural Affinity: Shared historical and cultural ties often lead to a preference for Turkish goods.
  • Turkish Contracting Sector Presence: Turkish companies have undertaken significant construction projects ($659 million across 52 projects), which creates a natural demand for Turkish-made materials and equipment.
  • Turkish Investment: Over $285 million in Turkish capital has been invested in Tajikistan, stimulating demand for Turkish goods within these ventures.

To succeed, Turkish exporters should focus on competitive pricing, reliable logistics, adherence to quality standards, and building strong business relationships in Tajikistan. Understanding local regulations and the predominantly state-driven nature of the economy is also crucial. Sources

What is the Best Offer of Import from Turkey to Uzbekistan?

STARTINFORUM Business, Economy , , , , 0 Comment

Uzbekistan is a key strategic partner for Turkey in Central Asia, and there’s significant potential for increasing imports from Turkey across a wide range of sectors. The “best offer” for import from Turkey to Uzbekistan isn’t a single product, but rather a combination of factors driven by Uzbekistan’s economic development, consumer demand, and existing trade patterns.

Here’s a breakdown of the best import offers from Turkey to Uzbekistan, considering current trends and future potential:

1. Machinery and Equipment (Industrial and Agricultural)

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: This is consistently the largest and most valuable import category for Uzbekistan from Turkey. Uzbekistan is undergoing significant industrialization and infrastructure development, which drives high demand for machinery, nuclear reactors, boilers, and electrical equipment. This includes equipment for manufacturing, power generation, and various industries.

  • Specific opportunities:
    • Construction Machinery: As infrastructure projects (roads, housing, industrial zones) continue, demand for Turkish construction machinery remains strong.
    • Textile Machinery: Uzbekistan is a major cotton producer and aims to increase its textile processing capabilities.2 Turkish textile machinery, known for its quality and efficiency, is highly sought after.
    • Agricultural Machinery: Modernizing the agricultural sector is a priority for Uzbekistan, creating demand for irrigation systems, tractors, and other farm equipment.
    • Food Processing Machinery: As Uzbekistan seeks to add value to its agricultural output, Turkish food processing and packaging machinery is in high demand.

2. Finished Textile Products and Apparel

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: Turkish textiles and apparel are highly regarded in Uzbekistan for their quality, design, and competitive pricing. Despite Uzbekistan’s own textile industry, there’s strong consumer demand for Turkish fashion, home textiles, and ready-to-wear clothing.
  • Specific opportunities:
    • Ready-to-Wear (RTW) Clothing: Dresses, suits, casual wear, and sportswear for men, women, and children.
    • Home Textiles: Bedding, towels, curtains, carpets, and other textile floor coverings.
    • Hosiery: Socks, stockings, and other knitted apparel.
    • Specialized Fabrics: Materials for specific industrial or fashion needs.

3. Plastics and Plastic Products

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: Uzbekistan’s growing manufacturing sector and increasing consumer goods production lead to high demand for various plastic raw materials and finished plastic products.
  • Specific opportunities:
    • Plastic Pipes, Tubes, and Fittings: For construction, irrigation, and industrial applications.
    • Packaging Materials: For food, beverages, and other consumer goods.
    • Plastic Housewares and Consumer Goods

4. Building Materials and Related Products

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: Uzbekistan’s ongoing construction boom (residential, commercial, and industrial) creates continuous demand for a wide array of building materials.4
  • Specific opportunities:
    • Iron and Steel Articles: Reinforcement bars, structural components, and various fabricated metal products.
    • Ceramic Products: Tiles, sanitary ware.
    • Glass and Glassware: For windows, facades, and interior applications.
    • Cement, Plaster, Stone: Basic construction materials.
    • Furniture, Lighting, Prefabricated Buildings: For new constructions and interior outfitting.

5. Pharmaceutical Products

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: Uzbekistan is investing in its healthcare sector and has a constant need for a diverse range of pharmaceutical products. Turkey is a significant exporter of medicines and medical supplies.

  • Specific opportunities:
    • Packaged Medicaments: Various types of finished pharmaceutical products.7
    • Medical Devices and Consumables

6. Food Products

  • Why it’s a “best offer”: While Uzbekistan has a strong agricultural base, there’s demand for certain Turkish food products, especially processed foods and specific fresh produce not readily available or competitive locally.
  • Specific opportunities:
    • Citrus Fruits: Oranges, mandarins, lemons.
    • Processed Foods: Confectionery, canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and some dairy products.
    • Animal Feed Additives: As seen in recent import data, specialized feed additives are imported.

Factors Enhancing the “Best Offer” Status

  • Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): The PTA between Turkey and Uzbekistan, which entered into force in February 2023, significantly reduces or eliminates tariffs on specific goods for both sides.8 This makes Turkish products more competitive in the Uzbek market.
  • Strong Bilateral Ties: Both countries have a shared commitment to increasing trade volume, with a target of reaching $5 billion.9 This political will creates a supportive environment for business.
  • Logistics and Connectivity: Improved transportation links, including road and rail routes through the Caspian Sea, facilitate smoother trade flows.10
  • Turkish Investment in Uzbekistan: The presence of nearly 1,900 Turkish companies and significant investments in Uzbekistan (totaling $5.6 billion) creates a natural demand for Turkish-made goods and services within their projects.11

To identify the absolute “best offer” for a specific business, it’s crucial to conduct detailed market research, analyze current demand, understand local regulations, and consider logistics and competition.

However, the categories listed above represent the most promising areas for Turkish exporters looking to enter or expand in the Uzbek market.

For more information about international markets, export tendencies and recommendations, deep analysis of trading opportunities, please feel free to contact us.

Potential of Turkmenistan for Imports from Turkey

STARTINFORUM Business, Economy , , 0 Comment

Turkmenistan presents a significant and growing potential for imports from Turkey, driven by several factors:

Strong Existing Trade Relationship

  • Major Import Partner: Turkey is already a leading import origin for Turkmenistan, consistently ranking among its top partners (e.g., 33.3% in 2023, and 28.2% in 2021). This indicates established trade channels and a preference for Turkish goods.
  • Growing Trade Volume: In March 2025, Turkey’s exports to Turkmenistan increased by 35.6% year-on-year, reaching $89.6 million. This positive growth trend signifies increasing demand and opportunities.
  • Bilateral Targets: Both countries aim to significantly increase their bilateral trade turnover, with Turkey targeting $5 billion, more than doubling the $2.2 billion reached in 2024. This shared ambition creates a favorable environment for import growth.

Turkmenistan’s Economic Context and Import Needs

  • Government-led Investment: Turkmenistan’s economy is experiencing solid growth (projected 6.3% in 2024 and 2025), largely driven by government-led investment in modernizing and developing social and industrial infrastructure. This creates demand for a wide range of goods and equipment.
  • Diversification Efforts: While heavily reliant on natural gas exports, Turkmenistan is making efforts to diversify its economy, including investments in agriculture and textile industries. This opens doors for imports related to these sectors.
  • Infrastructure Development: Significant infrastructure improvements, particularly in transportation, have doubled cargo and passenger transport in the first half of 2024. This suggests a continued need for construction materials, machinery, and related equipment.
  • “Single Window” for Trade: The launch of a “single digital window” for export-import operations in July 2024 aims to streamline procedures and boost foreign trade, making it easier for Turkish businesses to export.

Key Product Categories with High Potential for Turkish Exports

Based on current trade data and Turkmenistan’s development priorities, the most promising categories for Turkish imports are:

  • Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, and Boilers: Consistently the top export from Turkey to Turkmenistan, this category reflects Turkmenistan’s ongoing industrial development and infrastructure projects.
  • Electrical and Electronic Equipment: Essential for modernizing infrastructure and industries.
  • Articles of Iron or Steel & Iron Structures: Crucial for construction and heavy industry projects.
  • Plastics and Plastic Products: Used in various industries, packaging, and consumer goods.
  • Furniture, Lighting, and Prefabricated Buildings: Driven by construction and urban development.
  • Vehicles and Parts: As Turkmenistan’s economy grows, so does the demand for transportation.
  • Miscellaneous Chemical Products: Wide application across industries.
  • Textiles and Apparel: While Turkmenistan has its own textile industry, there’s still demand for various finished textile products and potentially specialized fabrics.
  • Pharmaceutical Products: A constant need for medical supplies.
  • Food Products: Turkmenistan imports a variety of food items, presenting opportunities for Turkish agricultural and processed food exporters. This includes fruits, vegetables, and processed foods.
  • Soaps, Lubricants, and Waxes: Everyday consumer and industrial goods.
  • Building Materials (e.g., Stone, Plaster, Cement): As construction continues, demand for these materials remains strong.

Challenges and Considerations

  • State-Controlled Economy: Turkmenistan’s economy is highly state-controlled, with limited private sector development. This means that government procurement and large-scale projects often drive import decisions.
  • Non-Tariff Barriers: While tariffs are relatively low, non-tariff barriers can still hinder trade. Understanding and navigating these regulations is crucial.
  • Currency Convertibility: The significant gap between official and parallel exchange rates can pose challenges for foreign exchange access for businesses.
  • Competition: Turkey faces competition from other major import partners like China, Russia, and Germany.

Conclusion

The potential for imports from Turkey to Turkmenistan is substantial and growing. Turkey’s expertise in manufacturing, construction, and a wide range of consumer goods aligns well with Turkmenistan’s development priorities and import needs. Businesses looking to expand into Turkmenistan should focus on sectors related to infrastructure, industrial modernization, and consumer goods, while also being aware of the nuances of doing business in a state-controlled economy. The ongoing efforts to streamline trade procedures and the strong bilateral commitment to increasing trade further enhance this potential.

Skip to toolbar