According to data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), Türkiye’s total exports reached $21.9 billion in March 2026. The chemical industry contributed approximately $3 billion, representing 15.2% of total exports.
The sector recorded an 8.7% year-on-year increase in March exports and closed the first quarter with more than $7.5 billion in total exports, maintaining its position as the country’s second-largest exporting sector.
Growth Despite Geopolitical Challenges
Adil Pelister, Chairman of the Istanbul Chemicals and Chemical Products Exporters’ Association (İKMİB), emphasized the resilience of the sector despite global uncertainties:
“Despite geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts, we managed to increase our exports in March. Surpassing $7.5 billion in the first quarter is a significant achievement.”
Pelister also noted that tensions in the Gulf region have led to fluctuations in energy prices, disruptions in logistics, and restructuring of supply chains, increasing cost pressures for industries dependent on petrochemical inputs.
Mineral Fuels Lead Subsector Exports
In March, mineral fuels and products ranked first among chemical export categories with $1.03 billion. This was followed by plastics and plastic products at $779.4 million, and inorganic chemicals at $237.7 million.
Other key export categories included organic chemicals, paints and coatings, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.
Italy Tops Export Markets, Malta Sees Sharpest Growth
Italy was the top export destination in March with $209 million, followed by Malta, Spain, Romania, and Morocco.
The most notable increase was recorded in Malta, with exports surging by 386.41%, highlighting the importance of market diversification.
Market Diversification and Supply Security in Focus
Amid shifting global trade dynamics, supply security, particularly in European markets, has regained strategic importance. This presents a competitive advantage for the Turkish chemical sector.
İKMİB continues to prioritize expanding into alternative markets, strengthening trade delegations, and enhancing sectoral collaborations to boost exports.
