China's Global Trade Move Threatens Turkish Exports
Redirecting to alternative markets due to U.S. tariffs, China has increased its share in North Africa while Turkey's exports have declined.
After the additional customs tariffs imposed by the U.S. on China, China turned to alternative markets, increasing its share in Turkey's important export markets such as Algeria and Egypt and intensifying competition.
U.S. Tariffs and China's Orientation
The additional customs tariffs that the U.S. began implementing on China in 2025 directly affected global trade balances and the competitive conditions of Turkish exporters.
Wanting to compensate for its loss in the U.S. market, China turned to alternative markets and began changing global shipping routes.
Striking Data in DEİK Report
The report prepared by the Foreign Economic Relations Board highlighted the market shifts occurring particularly in the North African region.
According to the data in the report, China rapidly increased its presence in different geographies to make up for the sales it could not make to the U.S.
Changing Picture in North Africa
In Algeria, one of Turkey's critical export markets, China's exports increased by 19.1 percent to rise to $13.9 billion.
In contrast, Turkey's exports to Algeria decreased by 14.6 percent, falling to the level of $2.5 billion.
Competitive Pressure in the Egyptian Market
A similar competitive picture emerged in the Egyptian market, where China's exports to this country reached $20 billion with an 18.9 percent increase.
During the same period, Turkey's exports to Egypt decreased by 2.4 percent, registering a decline to $4.1 billion.
Sectoral Effects and Price Loss
DEİK President Nail Olpak emphasized that strategic sectors such as automotive and white goods could be negatively affected by this intense wave of competition.
It was stated that the increasing competitive environment could lead to both market share loss and price pressure for Turkish exporters.
New Risks and Opportunity Areas
Nail Olpak stated that the trade tension between the U.S. and Turkey as well as China harbors risks while also opening new windows of opportunity.
The possibility of Turkey strengthening its position as a production and investment hub in supply chains was evaluated.