Turkey Exports May: Record Sales
Turkey’s May exports soared to a record $24.8 billion, a remarkable 2.7% year-over-year increase, demonstrating resilience in a tough global market. Trade Minister Ömer Bolat attributes this success to strategic adaptability. However, imports also rose, resulting in a foreign trade deficit, though considerably smaller than the previous month, yet the export performance represents a 19.4% jump from April’s $20.8 billion, showing extraordinary growth. Germany, the U.K., and the U.S.continue to be key destinations, driving economic activity. News Directory 3 spotlights these export successes, analyzing their implications. Can Turkey maintain this positive trend amid global uncertainties? Discover what’s next for Turkey’s export performance.
Turkey’s Exports Surge too Record high Despite Global Economic Headwinds
Updated June 2,2025
Turkey’s exports reached an all-time monthly high of $24.8 billion in may, marking a 2.7% increase compared to the same period last year. Trade Minister Ömer Bolat announced the figures Monday,highlighting the nation’s resilience in a challenging global market.This export performance represents a 19.4% jump from April’s $20.8 billion.
Despite the export gains, imports also saw a rise, increasing by 2.1% to $31.3 billion. This resulted in a foreign trade deficit of $6.5 billion, a slight increase from May 2024 but a critically important decrease of 46% compared to the previous month.
Bolat,speaking at a press conference in Istanbul,acknowledged the difficulties. “Our exports are increasing despite weak demand and tough competition,” Bolat said.
Over the first five months of 2025, Turkey’s exports totaled $110.9 billion,a 3.5% increase from the same period last year. Imports for the same period reached $152 billion, up 5.7%. Looking at the last 12 months, exports reached a record $265.5 billion, a 1.9% increase, while imports totaled $352.2 billion, up 1.4%.
Germany remains Turkey’s top export destination, accounting for 8.3% of total exports in May. The U.K. followed with 6.2%, with the U.S. at 6% and Italy at 5%.
What’s next
Analysts will be watching closely to see if Turkey can sustain this export momentum amid ongoing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. The country’s ability to diversify its export markets and adapt to changing global demand will be crucial in the coming months.