Plastics Sector Becomes Locomotive of Turkey's Chemical Exports
The chemical industry, which continues its rise in Türkiye's exports, delivered a strong performance in August as well. Plastics and plastic products, the largest sub-group of chemical exports, led the sector with $786 million in exports.
Turkey's chemical sector continues its export surge, posting strong performance in August. Plastics and plastic products, the largest sub-group of chemical exports, led the sector with USD 786 million in foreign sales.
According to data from the Ministry of Trade and Turkey Exporters Assembly (TİM), Turkey's total exports in August 2025 reached USD 21.8 billion. The automotive sector topped the rankings with USD 2.7 billion, while the chemical sector, with USD 2.6 billion in exports, captured 12% of total exports and maintained its second-place position.
Plastics: Star of Chemical Exports
Plastics and plastic products continue to be the strongest item in chemical exports. Reaching USD 786 million in exports in August, the sector maintained its lead, surpassing mineral fuels and inorganic chemicals.
Ömer Karadeniz, Chairman of the Board of PLASFED, evaluated the sector's success as follows:
"Plastics and plastic products have long maintained their leadership in Turkish chemical exports. Our export figures reaching USD 786 million in August demonstrate our competitive strength in global markets and our production capacity. Our sector contributes to the country's economy with high value-added products and showcases the dynamism of our industry."
Manufacturers Closely Monitor Global Developments
August's ISO Turkey Manufacturing PMI data at 47.3 pointed to contraction. Karadeniz made the following assessment regarding this data:
"We are seeing that contraction continues, but we are observing that the pace of contraction has slowed compared to the July level of 45.9. This picture points to a recovery trend in production despite global challenges."
Karadeniz also emphasized that manufacturers have maintained strong export performance despite inflation and cost pressures.
"Industry Must Be Supported"
PLASFED Chairman, the umbrella organization of the plastics sector, stressed the importance of structural support for sustaining export success:
"Our manufacturers continue to produce and export despite all difficulties. However, for sustainable growth, access to financing must be facilitated, high energy costs must not weaken our competitive strength, and investment incentives must be used more effectively. With the right policies, we can significantly increase our sector's share of exports."
Turkey's Economic Resilience
Noting that Turkey's macroeconomic indicators demonstrate the industry's capacity to withstand global fluctuations, Karadeniz emphasized that the plastics sector is one of the most important components of this resilience.
"We believe that in the coming period, with a production and export-focused growth strategy, Turkey will move to a stronger position in the economy."
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