Türkiye has become Europe’s largest steel producer and the world’s seventh-largest steel producer with 38.1 million tonnes of crude steel output, Trade Minister Ömer Bolat said, highlighting the country’s production capacity, export strength and efforts to adapt to changing global market conditions.

Speaking at the Steel Networking Summit 2026 World Steel Association Congress held in Istanbul, Bolat said Türkiye’s steel industry has gained a strong position in global markets thanks to its industrial infrastructure, qualified production capabilities and extensive export network.

The summit brought together more than 400 representatives from over 80 countries along with international buyers and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of the global steel sector, Türkiye’s production potential and export opportunities.

Türkiye strengthens its position in global steel market

Bolat said Türkiye’s steel sector has become one of the important centres of global production and trade, supported by its large manufacturing capacity and strong international connections.

Türkiye’s 38.1 million tonnes of crude steel production places the country first in Europe and seventh worldwide. The country is also among the world’s top 10 steel exporters, with steel exports reaching $17.1 billion.

Turkish steel products are exported to more than 200 countries and regions, while 42.3 per cent of Türkiye’s steel exports are directed to European Union markets, reflecting the strong industrial integration between Türkiye and Europe.

Green transformation becomes key priority

Bolat said Türkiye continues to support projects aimed at strengthening the steel industry’s integration into global supply chains and improving competitiveness.

According to the minister, 39 of the 269 projects supported to enhance industrial capacity belong to companies operating in the steel sector.

He also noted that 38 of the 219 companies supported under the Responsible® Programme, which focuses on green transformation, are steel industry firms.

The initiatives aim to help producers comply with new international standards, increase sustainable production and develop higher value-added manufacturing capacity.

Global competition and trade barriers challenge sector

Bolat said rising protectionist measures, excess capacity and increasing competition in global markets have created new challenges for the steel industry.

He stressed the importance of protecting Turkish exporters’ access to international markets and ensuring fair competition conditions, particularly amid changing trade policies and new environmental requirements.

The minister also highlighted the importance of adapting to green transformation processes, including efforts related to low-carbon production and sustainability standards.

Türkiye’s steel industry has a significant advantage in green transformation due to the widespread use of scrap-based electric arc furnace technology, which plays an important role in reducing energy consumption and emissions compared with traditional production methods.

Bolat said Türkiye will continue efforts to strengthen production capacity, increase exports, improve industrial competitiveness and expand its role in global steel markets.

(ILKHA)