The United Kingdom remains one of Turkey’s most significant trade partners, with the trade volume between the two nations showing remarkable growth over the past decade. This blog delves into Turkey’s export and import performance with the UK between 2014 and 2024, highlighting key trade elements and logistical details.
Trade Volume Between 2014-2024
Annual Export Figures
In 2014, Turkey’s exports to the United Kingdom amounted to approximately $9.7 billion. This figure increased steadily, reaching $11.2 billion by 2020. Despite a temporary decline due to Brexit and the pandemic, exports rebounded by 2021. By 2024, exports are estimated to approach $13 billion, driven by sustained demand for strategic products such as textiles and automotive components.
Annual Import Figures
Turkey’s imports from the United Kingdom stood at $6.3 billion in 2014, with an annual growth rate of 3-5% until 2020, when imports exceeded $8 billion. Post-2021, trade flows experienced fluctuations due to Brexit-related supply chain adjustments. However, by 2024, imports are expected to stabilize at $8.5-9 billion. Key drivers of import demand include defense industry equipment and chemical products.
Top 10 Exported Products
- Automotive and spare parts
- White goods and electrical household appliances
- Textiles and apparel
- Food and agricultural products (olive oil, hazelnuts, dried fruits)
- Machinery and equipment
- Plastics and plastic products
- Furniture and wooden goods
- Construction materials (ceramics, iron, and steel)
- Chemical products
- Leather and leather goods
These product categories are favored in the UK market due to their quality and competitive pricing. The textile and automotive sectors, in particular, play a crucial role in strengthening economic ties.
Top 10 Imported Products
- Aerospace and defense industry equipment
- Chemicals (pharmaceuticals, dyes, plastic raw materials)
- Motor vehicles and spare parts
- Industrial machinery
- Electrical and electronic devices
- Agricultural products (grains, pulses)
- Iron, steel, and metal products
- Energy raw materials (natural gas and oil)
- Alcoholic beverages (whiskey, beer)
- Paper and paper products
The UK’s strong position in technology and defense industries establishes a strategic import relationship for Turkey. Additionally, significant trade flows persist in energy raw materials and industrial machinery.
Trade Agreements
Following the UK’s exit from the EU in 2021, a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed between Turkey and the UK to ensure uninterrupted trade flows. The FTA has provided Turkey with advantageous conditions for exports, particularly in automotive, textiles, and white goods. The UK, in turn, has benefited from access to cost-effective and high-quality Turkish products. This agreement is expected to expand to include more sectors in the long term.
Transport and Logistics Processes
Sea Freight
Sea freight from Turkey to the United Kingdom typically takes 14-20 days. Shipments from ports in Istanbul and Izmir to destinations such as Southampton or Felixstowe are particularly suited for container-based trade. Sea freight is commonly used for textiles, automotive, and durable goods. Recently, new technologies aimed at reducing carbon emissions in sea trade have been adopted.
Road Freight
Road freight delivery times range between 5-7 days. This mode is often used for sensitive products requiring faster delivery, such as textiles and food. While customs processes in Europe initially caused delays following Brexit, they were streamlined by 2023. Advancements in logistics infrastructure have also contributed to a more efficient trade environment.
Conclusion
Between 2014 and 2024, trade between Turkey and the United Kingdom demonstrated steady growth despite global challenges such as Brexit and the pandemic. During this period, the automotive, textile, and food sectors led exports, while defense and chemical industries dominated imports. The implementation of the FTA and enhancements in logistics infrastructure signal the potential for even stronger trade relations in the future. This economic partnership between Turkey and the UK promises mutual profitability and reinforces their positions in the global supply chain.
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