Turkey's HRC exports decreased by 15.2 percent in January-March 2026, with the decline in traditional markets offset by the growth of new destinations.

According to preliminary data provided by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), in March of this year, exports of hot rolled coils (HRC) to Turkey amounted to 288,043 metric tons, an increase of 53.9 percent compared to February and a decrease of 13.1 percent year-on-year. Meanwhile, revenue from these exports amounted to $160.90 million, an increase of 51.9% compared to the previous month and a decrease of 14.5% year-on-year.

In the first three months of this year, Turkey's HRC exports amounted to 606,440 tons, which is 15.2 percent less, while the value of these exports decreased by 16.0 percent to $340.57 million, year-on-year.

Export of hot rolled coils to Turkey - last 12 months

During the specified period, Italy was the largest export destination of HRC to Turkey with 152,197 tons, which is 28.6% less compared to the same period last year. Italy is followed by Greece with 62,625 tons, which is 26.5% more, and Spain with 56,274 tons, which is 42.1% less compared to the same period last year.

During the same period last year, Turkey's largest export markets for hot-rolled coils mainly consisted of Italy, Spain, Portugal, Egypt and Greece, while a noticeable change in this ranking was observed between January and March 2026. Italy maintained its leading position despite the decline, while Greece rose to second place and Spain remained in the top three despite the decrease in tonnage. Meanwhile, the sharp decline in exports to Portugal and Egypt, which stood out among the leading markets last year, amounted to