Türkiye’s Automotive Exports Surge To $23.8 Billion In First Seven Months
Türkiye’s automotive sector is off to a strong start in 2025, with exports increasing nearly 15% year-over-year to $23.8 billion (TL 967.83 billion) in the first seven months of the year. The automotive exports sector continues to be crucial to Türkiye’s export profile, maintained its top place in export contributions during the period with 15.2% of Türkiye’s total exports despite trade tensions and protectionist measures that have disrupted global supply chains.
According to the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), total exports across all sectors came to $156.4 billion in the first seven months which is a 5.2% increase on an year-over-year basis. In July alone, exports were up 11% year-on-year to $25 billion, with the automotive industry continuing to act as the “locomotive” of the national economy.
Navigating Global Trade Shifts
The global automotive market has been unsettled by U.S. protectionist policies, which have cost major manufacturers hundreds of millions in tariffs. Nevertheless, new trade agreements—like the U.S.-Japan agreement lowering tariffs to 15%, and similar agreements with the EU and South Korea—are likely to alleviate some production planning headaches for car makers around the world.
For Türkiye, the continual export growth amidst falling global demand illustrates that the country is resilient and its economy remains strong, thanks to a number of active trade diplomacy efforts and continuing innovation in the sector. The government’s assured course to meet its vision in 2025 to be a regional manufacturing and export hub is on target.
Germany Leads as Top Destination
Germany remained the largest market for Turkish automotive exports in the January–July period, receiving $3.8 billion worth of vehicles and components—up by more than $1 billion from last year. Other key markets included:
- France: $2.7 billion (+$331.4 million)
- United Kingdom: $2.5 billion
- Spain: $2 billion (+$555 million)
- Italy: $1.9 billion
Slovenia and Romania also featured prominently, with exports of $1.3 billion and $879 million respectively.
Export Powerhouses by Province
The country’s leading automotive export hubs were:
- Kocaeli – $7.4 billion
- Bursa – $5.1 billion
- Istanbul – $5.07 billion
- Sakarya – $2.6 billion
- Ankara – $942.9 million
With European markets—especially Germany, France, and Italy—remaining the primary destination for Turkish-made vehicles and components, the sector’s ability to adapt to changing trade conditions will be key to sustaining momentum in the months ahead.
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