Turkey Rises as a Secure Supplier in the Global Metal Industry: Exports Reach Record Highs

ISTANBUL – Turkey is increasingly asserting itself as a "secure supplier" in the uncertain landscape of global trade, with its metal industry exports reaching unprecedented levels. According to the May 2025 data from TR-METALENDEKS, released by the Istanbul Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Exporters' Association (İDDMİB), Turkey's metal industry recorded significant growth in both export volume and value. Despite a lack of progress in ongoing global trade negotiations, Turkey's consistent production and export capacity have stood out.

The metal industry export volume index in May climbed from 125.3 points to 144.70 points, marking its highest level since May 2024. Concurrently, the value index surged from 160.5 points to 183.6 points, reaching its peak since June 2022.

İDDMİB's analysis suggests that the deteriorating fiscal outlook in the United States and the depreciation of the dollar have positioned Turkey more favorably. While uncertainty persists in the monetary policies of European and US central banks, Turkey has achieved stability in its metal exports.

However, the unit value index saw a slight decline, falling from 128.08 points in April to 126.85 points in May. This modest dip is attributed to pricing pressures and demand for discounts in export markets. The average export unit price also decreased from $4.79/kg to $4.74/kg.

Global PMI Data Signals Weakness

As global industrial activities show signs of contraction, Turkey's export growth stands out. The global metal industry manufacturing PMI (Purchasing Managers' Index) data dropped from 47.6 points in April to 45.7 points in May, with Europe seeing a decline to 45.9 points. This general downturn in orders and production has led to increased demand for Turkey as a reliable supplier.

Expectation of Price Volatility

Looking ahead, developments in ongoing trade negotiations among the US, China, and the EU could directly impact metal prices. İDDMİB cautions that the expiration of tariff suspension periods at the beginning of July, along with potential new regulations, might trigger significant price volatility. The depreciation of the Turkish Lira is also noted as providing a short-term competitive advantage for exports amid these global shifts.

Domestic Slowdown, External Opportunities

While domestic demand continues to slow due to tight monetary policies and financial shocks within Turkey, export orders have experienced a limited decline. Although profit margins on received orders have narrowed, Turkey's reliability in external markets instills optimism among exporters.

Source: ODA TV