Stating that the Turkish steel industry ended 2025 with an increase in exports despite global uncertainty and volatile market conditions, Çetin Tecdelioglu, Chairman of the Istanbul Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Exporters Association (IDDMIB), noted that the industry ended 2025 with exports of $13.47 billion, an increase of 6.3 percent. last year and said the recovery would be stronger. expected in 2026. Stressing that the industry is committed to increasing exports, especially to the US market, Mr. Tecdelioglu said that an export target of US$15 billion has been set for 2026.
Export growth achieved despite global uncertainty
Noting that 2025 was marked by strong global uncertainty, Mr. Tecdelioglu added that the election process in US tariff debates and geopolitical events have negatively impacted global trade. Despite this, he said, the increase in exports was the result of the flexibility of Turkish exporters and their active efforts in this area.
Recovery expectations for 2026 are increasing
Stating that the association expects the export environment to become more favorable in 2026, Mr. Tecdelioglu cited expectations for the renewal of the Customs Union with the EU, the reduction of military risks in neighboring regions and the entry into force of new free trade agreements as a positive factor for exports.
Noting that the gap between high interest rates and low exchange rates has put serious pressure on Turkish exporters in 2025, Tecdelioğlu said that with lower interest rates, access to finance is expected to become easier in 2026, allowing companies to return to more profitable structure.
Noting that the majority of exports are carried out in the euro area, the IDDMIB chairman said that the expected increase in the euro/dollar parity in 2026 will have a positive impact on Turkish ferrous and non-ferrous metals exports, partially offsetting pressure on the domestic exchange rate. By 2026, they intend to establish more permanent structures in the US, deepen their market presence through logistics warehouses and stronger sales networks, and expand operations. He noted that exports to the United States in 2025 amounted to $533 million, adding that this figure is planned to increase further in the coming period.
