Ankara:Trkiye A report by the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Trkiye (DEIK) suggests that Trkiye could play a pivotal role as global trade routes are redefined, driven by China's shift towards alternative markets.
According to Anadolu Agency, the DEIK analysis examines the transformation in China's foreign trade following additional US customs tariffs, highlighting decreased Chinese exports to the US, from 14.68% in 2024 to 11.14% in 2025. DEIK Chair Nail Olpak noted that these protectionist global trade policies are reshaping trade routes across various regions.
China has responded to the decline in its US market presence by expanding trade channels to regions such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Africa, and the European Union. Specifically, China increased its exports by 25.9% to Africa, 9.7% to the Middle East, and 8.6% to the EU between 2024 and 2025. Key markets identified include Nigeria, the UAE, and Germany.
Olpak emphasized the importance of Trkiye monitoring these geographic shifts, as China targets Africa, the Middle East, and Europe to counterbalance its diminished US market share. These are regions where Trkiye traditionally has strong business ties or ambitions to grow.
The DEIK report highlights Trkiye's strategic advantages, such as production capacity and geographic location, which could benefit its role in the evolving global trade landscape. Although China's exports to Germany, Trkiyes largest export market, rose by 10.55%, this has not yet threatened Trkiye's market position.
However, the report cautions that Trkiye must remain vigilant regarding rising competition in African and Middle Eastern markets. In 2025, Chinese exports to Egypt reached $20 billion compared to Trkiye's $4 billion. Similarly, Chinese exports to the UAE increased significantly to $72.9 billion, overshadowing Trkiye's $9.3 billion.
Olpak urged Turkish businesses to focus on value-added production, brand strength, and innovation to compete with China's dominance in sectors like electrical devices. He also noted that trust is becoming an increasingly significant factor in global trade competition, alongside price and technology.