Istanbul:Trkiye's steel industry continues to grow despite facing significant challenges from protectionist trade measures by the EU and the US, as stated by Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat. Bolat highlighted the industry's critical role in the national economy during his address at the Steel Networking Summit 2026 held in Istanbul, where he spoke to 400 industry representatives from 80 countries.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Bolat emphasized Trkiye's position as a leader in the European steel sector, with an annual production of 38.1 million tons of crude steel, ranking seventh worldwide. He noted that the country's steel exports, valued at $17.1 billion, reach over 200 countries, with a significant portion destined for the EU. Bolat criticized the unilateral trade measures by the EU and US, arguing that they undermine international trade rules and the goals of the global green transition, particularly affecting the circulation of environmentally friendly, low-carbon steel.

The minister pointed out that despite the EU's reduction in steel quotas and the implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, Turkish steel exports to non-EU countries have increased. Meanwhile, exports to the EU have declined due to these trade barriers. Bolat assured that the Trade Ministry is providing support to help Turkish firms comply with new emissions standards and mitigate the impact of these restrictions.

Bolat also highlighted the robust growth of Trkiye's economy under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership, with a significant increase in GDP and exports over the past 24 years. He projected further growth in GDP and per capita income by the year's end, positioning Trkiye as a key player in global trade.