The Target is Clear, the Path is Challenging
We entered 2026 with a total export target of USD 410 billion, comprising USD 282 billion in merchandise exports and USD 128 billion in services exports. When assessed against the potential of our country, this is a modest target. Nevertheless, in the very first month of the year, we fell short even of this modest objective. Despite the parity contribution of USD 1.1 billion, we closed January with a decline of 3.9 percent. We also estimate that our services exports materialized at approximately USD 7.8 billion.
The sectoral outlook reveals the picture in all its clarity. The fact that only 10 out of 27 sectors increased their exports reflects, beyond the weakness in global demand, the pronounced impact of competitiveness challenges. Particularly on the industrial front, high financing costs and mounting burdens are severely constraining the room for maneuver of our companies. The resilience of many firms striving to sustain operations in order not to lose production capacity and customers is gradually eroding.
Our exporters are grappling with rising costs across almost every area, from labor and energy to raw materials and operating expenses. At the same time, the high-interest-rate environment and difficulties in accessing finance are making it increasingly harder to breathe on the production side. In a period where progress through small and limited steps is no longer feasible, it is clearly evident that a landscape in which industry is not adequately supported is unsustainable. Addressing exchange rate, inflation, and interest rate policies in a manner that supports production and competitiveness is of critical importance for the permanent strengthening of exports.
At the global level, protectionist tendencies are gaining strength and market entry conditions are becoming more stringent. In an environment marked by rising geopolitical risks, the free trade agreements signed by the European Union, our largest market, with South American countries and India stand among the developments that must be closely monitored from a medium- and long-term perspective for our country. In this process, it is of great importance that steps to safeguard our country's commercial interests—foremost among them the modernization of the Customs Union—are taken swiftly.
As TİM, while closely monitoring the process together with our exporters' associations, we continue to strengthen our presence in the field. The comprehensive trade delegation program we have prepared for 2026 is one of the most tangible reflections of this approach. Through these programs spanning five continents, we will not only bring our exporters together with buyers, but also pave the way for lasting partnerships in target markets.
This year, we have also launched a new era of next-generation TİM Vision Delegations focused on developed markets. We will engage our companies not only in one-on-one business meetings, but also in sectoral panels and strategic gatherings with the leading actors of the market. Alongside our traditional markets, we will increase the visibility of our exporters in strategic and emerging markets as well.
Through all these efforts, we aim to share the burden of our exporters, facilitate their access to new markets, and further strengthen Türkiye's position in global trade. On the 2026 journey, we will continue to work shoulder to shoulder with our exporters in the field, with determination and resolve.