Recent official data shows continued momentum in Turkey's foreign trade sector, with exports in November registering a notable increase of 1.3% compared to the same period last year, reaching a total value of $22.536 billion. This growth confirms the Turkish economy's ability to maintain its export momentum despite global economic challenges and market volatility.
Trade balance details for November
According to figures released by the Turkish Statistical Institute on Wednesday, growth wasn't limited to exports; imports also increased by 2.6% to reach $30.518 billion. This simultaneous rise in imports widened the foreign trade deficit—the difference between the value of exports and imports—which reached $7.982 billion in November, marking a 6.3% increase compared to the same month in 2024.
Cumulative performance over 11 months
In terms of overall annual performance, the data provided a more comprehensive picture of Turkish trade. Exports rose by 3.6% during the period from January to November 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching a total value of $247.23 billion. Conversely, imports increased by 5.7% during the same eleven months, reaching $329.698 billion, reflecting continued industrial and consumer activity within the country that necessitates the import of raw materials and intermediate goods.
Economic context and strategic importance
These figures are particularly significant given Turkey's economic policy, which focuses primarily on an export-led growth model. The Turkish government is striving to boost domestic production and increase its share of global trade, leveraging its strategic geographic location as a bridge between Asia and Europe, as well as its advanced logistics infrastructure.
However, the trade deficit remains one of the most significant structural challenges facing the Turkish economy, as the rising import bill—particularly for energy and raw materials—puts pressure on the balance of payments and foreign currency reserves. Economic analysts point out that continued export growth is vital for economic stability, but the gap between exports and imports requires sustainable solutions, including increasing the added value of Turkish products and reducing reliance on imports in the manufacturing sector.
The export sector is a major driver of growth in Turkey, and this data confirms the resilience of Turkish exporters in dealing with international changes, including the economic slowdown in some European markets, which are Turkey’s largest trading partner.
