Turkey-Africa trade surges to $13.3bn

Türkiye’s exports to Africa reached $13.3 billion in the first seven months of 2026, reflecting growing trade, infrastructure and diplomatic ties between the country and the continent.

The export value rose 12.6% compared with the same period last year, while exports in July alone increased 16.3% to $2.3 billion, according to the Türkiye-Africa Business Council.

Osman Aksoy, coordinator and chair of the Foreign Economic Relations Board’s Türkiye-Africa Business Council, described the figures as evidence of the strengthening economic relationship between Türkiye and African countries.

Egypt was Türkiye’s largest market among those highlighted, with exports rising 26.1% to $2.3 billion between January and July. Exports to Libya reached $1.59 billion, while Morocco recorded $2.43 billion.

Türkiye’s exports to Nigeria increased 52.1% during the seven-month period to $453.2 million. Exports to South Africa rose 31.3% to $479 million, while shipments to Tunisia exceeded $720 million.

Exports to Niger also increased, rising 8% during the period to more than $302 million.

Aksoy attributed the growth partly to expanding Turkish Airlines connections, maritime routes, and major Turkish construction projects involving roads, ports, housing, and airports.

He said machinery, electronics, automotive products, chemicals, iron and steel, textiles, food, and construction materials were among the sectors driving exports.

He urged Turkish companies to increase local production, joint investments and distributor networks across Africa, particularly as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) creates opportunities to expand regional trade.

SOURCE: AA