The plastics sector has become the locomotive of the chemical industry, which continues to rise in Turkey's exports. With an export value of $786 million in August, the sector has demonstrated the resilience of the industry despite global challenges. Although the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ISO) Manufacturing PMI data indicated a contraction at 47.3, the manufacturers' commitment to production and the resilient structure of the economy were noteworthy.
The chemical sector continues its upward trend in Turkey's exports. According to the data from the Ministry of Trade and the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), Turkey's exports reached $21.8 billion in August 2025. The automotive sector ranked first among the sectors with the highest exports, with $2.7 billion in foreign sales. The chemicals and derivatives sector maintained its second place with an export value of $2.6 billion, accounting for 12% of the total.
Plastics and related products, the strongest item in chemical exports, led the sector with an export of approximately $786 million. This category was followed by mineral fuels and inorganic chemicals.
Ömer Karadeniz, President of the Plastics Industry Federation (PLASFED), highlighted the sector's strong position in exports, stating, "Plastics and their products have long maintained their leadership in Turkish chemical exports. Our export figure reaching $786 million in August is a testament to our competitiveness in global markets and our production capacity. Our sector contributes to the country's economy with high value-added products and showcases the dynamism of our industry."
Manufacturers are monitoring macro data
The President of PLASFED addressed the importance of macro indicators for manufacturers. He noted that the inflation figures for August reveal that cost pressures in production continue, yet the robust trend in exports is indicative of manufacturers' resilience and determination to produce.
Reminding that the ISO Turkey Manufacturing PMI data stood at 47.3, Karadeniz stated, "While contraction is still evident, we are observing that the pace of decline has slowed compared to the July level of 45.9. This picture indicates a trend of recovery in production despite global challenges."
“Support for manufacturers is essential”
Karadeniz emphasized the need to address structural issues to make export success sustainable:
"Our manufacturers continue to produce and export despite all global and local challenges. However, to ensure sustainable growth, access to finance must be facilitated, high energy costs should not weaken our competitive power, and investment incentives should be utilized more effectively. With the right policies, it is possible to significantly increase our sector's share in exports."
“Turkey's economic resilience continues”
Karadeniz pointed out that Turkey's macro data demonstrate the industry's capacity to withstand global fluctuations, emphasizing that the plastics sector is an important part of this resilience. He underlined their belief that with a production and export-focused growth strategy in the upcoming period, Turkey would achieve a stronger position in the economy.
Translated by Artificial Intelligence