Commenting on the program of Slovakia's industry trade delegations in Bratislava, organized by the Turkish Steel Exporters Association (CIB) in order to strengthen trade relations between Turkey and Slovakia and increase the presence of the Turkish steel sector in Central Europe, Mustafa Necati Techdelioglu, Deputy Chairman of the CIB Board of Directors, stated that direct interaction has become even more important at that time It is a time when competition in global trade is becoming increasingly difficult.
How as previously reported by SteelOrbis A total of 140 bilateral business meetings were held within the framework of the program.
Stating that the industry is going through a period marked by increasing tariff and non-tariff barriers, as well as constantly changing logistics costs, Mr. Techdeloglu said: "However, the Turkish steel sector continues to stand out for its production capacity, flexibility and fast supply capabilities. We believe that the meetings we held in Bratislava will make a significant contribution both to the establishment of new partnerships and to the strengthening of existing relations."
Gateway to Central Europe
Noting that Slovakia's strategic location offers significant opportunities for the Turkish steel sector, he added that they seek to increase the visibility of Turkish-origin steel in Slovakia and the broader Central European market by leveraging its advantages in quality, reliability and fast maintenance.
Highlighting the increase in steel imports to Slovakia from Turkey in recent years, Mr. Abdelioglu said that trade between the two countries has significant growth potential. He noted that Slovakia's steel imports from Turkey increased from 19,000 tons in 2023 to 27,000 tons in 2025, but added that these figures were still insufficient and that Turkey's share in Slovakia's total steel imports could be significantly increased.
Turkey's main steel exports to Slovakia consist of products such as screws, bolts, nuts, wire, ropes, wire rod and flat rolled steel, and Turkish manufacturers are seeking to strengthen their presence in the region through quality and competitiveness.
