Chemical Sector Exports Approach $3 Billion in May with Continued Growth

According to data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), the chemicals sector achieved approximately USD 3 billion in exports in May 2026, making it Turkey's second-largest exporting sector.

The chemicals sector, which plays a strategic role in Turkey's production and export-driven growth, continues to enhance its export performance despite global economic uncertainties and geopolitical developments. According to data released by the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), Turkey's total exports in May reached USD 22.5 billion, while the chemicals sector maintained its position as the second-largest exporting sector with approximately USD 3 billion in exports.

The chemicals sector's May exports increased by 6.9% compared to the same period last year, while the sector's share in Turkey's total exports rose to 15.3%. In the January-May 2026 period, the sector's exports reached USD 13.8 billion with a 5.3% increase.

Turkish Chemicals Sector Demonstrated Strength at International Trade Fairs
The Istanbul Chemical Substances and Products Exporters Association (İKMİB) successfully organized national participation at Interpack 2026 and PLMA's World of Private Label 2026, among the world's leading trade fairs held in May.

Turkish companies operating in the packaging, private label, cosmetics, cleaning, plastics and food sectors had the opportunity to present their products and production capabilities to international buyers at these fairs. The organized events provided significant contributions to companies in developing new business partnerships and diversifying their export markets.

İKMİB Chairman Aracı: "Our Chemicals Sector Maintains Competitive Strength"
İKMİB Board Chairman V. İbrahim Aracı made the following statement regarding May export data:

"The fact that our chemicals sector increased its exports by 6.9% in May and reached approximately USD 3 billion in level once again demonstrates our sector's strong production infrastructure and competitive strength in global markets. We consider this performance particularly valuable during a period when protectionist trends in global trade are increasing, and geopolitical risks and economic uncertainties are being felt intensely.

As İKMİB, we continue our work to increase value-added production, accelerate green transition processes, strengthen access to new markets and bring international investments directed towards our sector to our country. We believe that with our chemicals sector's strong production capacity, the dynamism of our exporters and the contributions of support mechanisms for exports, Turkey will continue to make the highest contribution to national export targets."