Altuğ: “We Closed January 2026 with a Record Export Performance”
A. Akgün Altuğ, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sakarya Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SATSO), evaluated the latest foreign trade data that has been announced.
Commenting on the January export figures released by the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), Chairman Altuğ stated:
A 26.5% Increase Compared to the Previous Year
“In January 2026, Sakarya achieved exports worth 559 million USD, marking a 26.5% increase compared to the same month of the previous year. This figure represents the highest January export performance in our history. Sakarya has thus entered 2026 both with a record and by maintaining its position as the 7th largest exporting province in Türkiye.
Top Exporting Sectors
In January, the top five sectors contributing to Sakarya’s exports were, respectively: Automotive Industry, Iron and Non-Ferrous Metals, Chemicals and Chemical Products, Electrical and Electronics, and Steel.
Notable Increases in 13 Sectors
During January, we succeeded in increasing exports in 13 out of 25 main sectors compared to the same month of last year. Significant growth was particularly observed in the Automotive, Electrical and Electronics, Fisheries and Animal Products, Chemicals and Chemical Products, and Mining Products sectors.
Exports to 117 Destinations Worldwide
In January 2026, Sakarya’s business community exported to 117 destinations worldwide, including free zones. The top five export markets were Spain, France, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Italy.
Export Growth to 55 Countries
Compared to the same period last year, we increased our exports to 55 destinations. Notable increases, both in percentage and value terms, were recorded in Spain, Poland, Romania, Libya, Switzerland, and Georgia.
$1.9 Billion Foreign Trade Surplus in 2025
According to the 2025 data released by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT), Sakarya’s export-to-import coverage ratio reached 142% throughout the year, resulting in a foreign trade surplus exceeding 1.9 billion USD.
Evaluating the export figures, SATSO Chairman A. Akgün Altuğ stated:
“2025 was marked by geopolitical fractures, rising tensions, tax disputes reflecting trade wars, and increasing competitiveness challenges across sectors. Like every country and economy, the Turkish business world was affected—often more intensely—by these developments. Even under such circumstances, as Sakarya’s business community, we narrowly missed breaking an all-time export record.
The EU’s New Free Trade Agreements May Negatively Affect Our Economy
While Türkiye started 2026 cumulatively in negative territory, Sakarya closed January with growth and a record performance. The burden on our exporters continues to increase. In particular, the European Union’s free trade agreements with South American countries and India are a source of concern for our exporters. The EU is our most important trade partner, and these agreements may have adverse effects. We must take the necessary precautions. Products of Indian origin, for example, may enter our country duty-free via Europe.
The Customs Union Should Be Updated
Although we have modernized our infrastructure for the European market, were among the first countries to adopt and prepare for the Green Deal, and have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving carbon neutrality, our country must pursue an update of the Customs Union, as also emphasized by TİM President Mustafa Gültepe.
The Share of Exports in Growth Must Increase
Our country’s objective is always to produce and export more. In this process, where we aim to achieve growth through exports rather than consumption, we must continue to play a constructive role in comprehensive and moderate economic approaches that prioritize diversified trade partnerships. Despite all possible scenarios, we have maintained uninterrupted economic growth for 21 consecutive quarters. With a spirit of compromise and high production quality, we will respond effectively to every possible challenge.”
News Date : 3/2/2026