How to Export to Turkey: Your Gateway Between Europe & Middle East

How to Export to Turkey: Your Gateway Between Europe & Middle East

Turkey stands as one of the world's most strategic markets, serving as a literal and economic bridge between Europe and the Middle East. With monthly exports reaching $23.9 billion in October 2025, up 2% year-over-year, Turkey demonstrates remarkable economic resilience and growth potential.

For B2B companies looking to expand internationally, Turkey represents a compelling opportunity. As the 28th largest global exporter with $265 billion in goods exported in 2023, Turkey offers a sophisticated market with established trade relationships and growing digital infrastructure.

This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to export to Turkey successfully, from understanding market dynamics to building sustainable partnerships. Whether you're in manufacturing, technology, or services, you'll discover actionable strategies to enter this dynamic market.

Understanding Turkey's Strategic Market Position

Economic Powerhouse at the Crossroads

Turkey's unique geographical position creates unparalleled market access. The country serves as a natural hub for companies seeking to reach both European and Middle Eastern markets simultaneously. This strategic advantage has contributed to Turkey's robust export performance, with the country achieving record highs like $23.4 billion in March 2025.

The Turkish economy benefits from diverse trade partnerships. Key export destinations include Germany (10%), UK, UAE, Iraq, and the US (6% each), demonstrating the country's ability to maintain strong relationships across different economic blocs.

📊 Key Stat: Turkey's e-exports are projected to grow to $8 billion annually, highlighting the digital transformation of Turkish commerce.

Customs Union Benefits

One of Turkey's most significant advantages for international businesses is its customs union with the European Union. This arrangement eliminates tariffs on industrial goods and provides preferential access to European markets. For companies looking to export to Turkey, this means streamlined processes and reduced barriers to entry.

However, it's important to note market dynamics. Turkey currently faces a trade deficit of -$7.6 billion as of October 2025, indicating strong import demand but also highlighting competitive pressures from international suppliers.

Key Sectors and Opportunities

Manufacturing Excellence

Turkey has established itself as a manufacturing powerhouse, particularly in automotive, textiles, and machinery. The country's manufacturing sector drives much of its export success, benefiting from skilled labour, modern infrastructure, and strategic location.

For B2B companies in manufacturing equipment, industrial technology, or supply chain services, Turkey presents significant opportunities. The country's manufacturers are increasingly seeking advanced technologies and automation solutions to maintain competitive advantages.

Agricultural Exports Leadership

Turkey's agricultural sector generated $32.6 billion in exports in 2024, making it one of the world's leading agricultural exporters. This creates opportunities for companies providing:

• Agricultural technology and equipment
• Food processing machinery
• Supply chain and logistics solutions
• Quality control and certification services

Growing ICT Sector

The information and communication technology sector in Turkey is expanding rapidly. ICT goods exports reached $1.8 billion in 2024, reflecting growing domestic capabilities and international demand.

💡 Key Insight: Turkey's ICT sector growth creates opportunities for software companies, hardware suppliers, and digital service providers looking to establish regional operations.

Digital Commerce Revolution

E-Export Growth Trajectory

One of the most exciting developments in Turkish commerce is the rapid growth of e-exports. Currently representing 2.6% of total exports but growing 27% year-over-year, digital commerce is transforming how Turkish businesses engage with international markets.

This growth creates opportunities for:

• E-commerce platform providers
• Digital marketing agencies
• Payment processing solutions
• Logistics and fulfilment services
• Cross-border trade facilitation tools

Digital Infrastructure Investment

The Turkish government is heavily investing in digital infrastructure to support e-commerce growth. This includes improvements to broadband connectivity, digital payment systems, and regulatory frameworks for online commerce.

Market Entry Strategies

Direct Export Approach

For companies with established products and sufficient resources, direct export to Turkey can be highly effective. This approach provides maximum control over pricing, customer relationships, and market positioning.

Key considerations for direct export:

• Regulatory compliance and certification requirements
• Currency fluctuation management
• Local customer service capabilities
• Distribution and logistics partnerships

Partnership and Joint Ventures

Given Turkey's relationship-focused business culture, partnerships with local companies often prove successful. Turkish businesses value long-term relationships and prefer working with partners who demonstrate commitment to the market.

⚡ Pro Tip: Attend Turkish trade shows and business events to build relationships. Face-to-face meetings remain crucial in Turkish business culture.

Digital-First Market Entry

With e-exports growing rapidly, digital channels offer cost-effective market entry options. This approach works particularly well for:

• Software and digital services
• Niche manufacturing products
• Professional services
• Educational and training solutions

Building Relationships in Turkish Markets

Cultural Considerations

Successful market entry requires understanding Turkish business culture. Relationships ("ilişkiler") form the foundation of Turkish commerce. Business decisions often depend on personal trust and long-term relationship potential rather than purely transactional considerations.

Essential relationship-building practices:

• Invest time in personal relationships before discussing business
• Show respect for Turkish culture and traditions
• Demonstrate long-term commitment to the market
• Provide excellent after-sales service and support

Language and Communication

While English is widely spoken in Turkish business circles, learning basic Turkish phrases shows respect and commitment. Consider hiring Turkish-speaking staff or working with local representatives who understand cultural nuances.

Overcoming Market Entry Challenges

Regulatory Navigation

Turkey has specific regulatory requirements for different product categories. Working with local legal and regulatory experts can help navigate:

• Import licensing requirements
• Product certification standards
• Tax and customs procedures
• Industry-specific regulations

Currency and Economic Considerations

Turkey has experienced currency volatility in recent years. Successful companies develop strategies to manage currency risk while remaining competitive in local markets.

Risk management approaches:

• Local currency pricing strategies
• Hedging arrangements
• Flexible payment terms
• Local sourcing where possible

Competition from Local and International Players

Turkey's attractive market conditions mean significant competition from both local companies and international competitors. Success requires clear value propositions and differentiation strategies.

Recommended Tools

For companies planning to export to Turkey, having the right sales and marketing technology stack is essential for success.

Success Framework for Turkish Market Entry

Phase 1: Market Research and Planning (Months 1-3)

1. Conduct comprehensive market analysis

   • Identify target customer segments
   • Analyse competitive landscape
   • Assess regulatory requirements
   • Evaluate pricing strategies

2. Develop market entry strategy

   • Choose entry method (direct export, partnership, etc.)
   • Set realistic timelines and milestones
   • Allocate appropriate resources
   • Plan risk management approaches

Phase 2: Relationship Building (Months 3-6)

1. Establish local presence

   • Attend Turkish trade shows and events
   • Connect with Turkish business associations
   • Engage local consultants or representatives
   • Begin building key relationships

2. Pilot program development

   • Identify initial target customers
   • Develop localised marketing materials
   • Create Turkish language support capabilities
   • Establish local partnerships

Phase 3: Market Launch (Months 6-12)

1. Execute market entry plan

   • Launch marketing campaigns
   • Begin active sales efforts
   • Provide excellent customer service
   • Monitor performance metrics

2. Optimise and scale

   • Analyse customer feedback
   • Refine product offerings
   • Expand distribution channels
   • Plan for growth phase

📊 Success Metric: Companies that follow structured market entry approaches typically achieve 40% higher success rates in international expansion.

Key Takeaways

• Turkey's strategic position between Europe and Middle East provides unique market access opportunities for international businesses
• The country's $265 billion export market and growing e-commerce sector create significant opportunities across multiple industries
• Manufacturing, agriculture, and ICT sectors offer the strongest growth potential for B2B companies
• Relationship-building and cultural understanding are essential for long-term success in Turkish markets
• Digital commerce growth of 27% year-over-year makes e-export strategies increasingly viable
• Partnership approaches often work better than purely transactional relationships in Turkish business culture
• Proper market research and phased entry strategies significantly improve success rates

Conclusion

Exporting to Turkey offers compelling opportunities for companies seeking to expand into dynamic, growing markets. With its strategic location, diverse economy, and strong trade relationships, Turkey serves as an ideal gateway between European and Middle Eastern markets.

Success requires understanding local culture, building strong relationships, and developing appropriate market entry strategies. Companies that invest time in proper planning and relationship building typically achieve sustainable growth in Turkish markets.

The country's rapid digital transformation and growing e-export sector provide new opportunities for innovative companies. Whether through traditional export channels or digital commerce platforms, Turkey offers multiple pathways to international success.

If you're looking to build predictable pipeline and scale your GTM execution for Turkish market entry, ProspectX can help. We deliver elite execution through data-driven strategies that book qualified meetings and accelerate your international expansion.