In a call for deeper economic transformation, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized the need for Turkey to move beyond low-margin exports and prioritize high value-added production to boost its global trade position.
Speaking via videoconference during the 8th Turkey Innovation Week, Erdoğan said the country’s current average export value of $1.20–$1.30 per kilogram remains unsatisfactory, especially considering Turkey’s young population, manufacturing capacity, and industrial know-how.
“We must first surpass the $2 threshold and then target $3 per kilogram,” he said, citing the defense industry as a benchmark, which currently exports at a rate of $62 per kilogram.
Strong Economic Recovery in 2020 Despite COVID-19
Erdoğan also pointed to the Turkish economy’s resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. After contracting in Q2, Turkey recorded 6.7% growth in Q3, making it the fastest growing economy globally during that period, according to Erdoğan.
Despite global supply chain disruptions, Turkey’s exports reached $152 billion between January and November 2020, with monthly exports ranging between $16–17 billion in October and November.
“We expect to close the year with positive growth, in line with our forecasts,” Erdoğan noted, applauding exporters and institutions for their contributions.
A Strategic Shift Amid Global Realignments
The pandemic has reshaped global trade priorities, prompting many international companies to diversify away from Asia-based production. Turkey has emerged as a strategic alternative, offering advantages such as:
Competitive production costs
- Skilled workforce
- Modern logistics and transport infrastructure
- Reliable quality and delivery standards
“Turkey has become one of the most popular countries for sourcing and production,” Erdoğan said, adding that the country’s manufacturing industry utilization reached 75.8% in November.
A Global Environment Turning Inward
Erdoğan also warned of rising protectionism and customs barriers globally, especially among developed nations, who he said have retreated into isolation rather than collaborating against the pandemic.
“This crisis has revealed the fragility of global cooperation,” he said. “Even countries with strong economies were unprepared, and developing nations have suffered the most.”
Despite these challenges, Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to innovation, competitiveness, and economic resilience. “Our strength lies in our people, our industry, and our vision. And we will build a stronger, more value-driven export model moving forward.”
