Ankara, the capital of Turkey, has commenced 2026 with an exceptional export performance, achieving a record-breaking $1.3 billion in January. This figure represents an approximate 40% increase compared to the same period last year and stands as the highest January export value ever recorded for the city.
Ankara’s Export Growth Trajectory
According to data released by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), Turkey’s total exports for January amounted to $20.3 billion, with Ankara’s contribution being particularly noteworthy. An analysis of export data by enterprise center reveals a consistent upward trend for the capital.
In January 2013, Ankara’s exports stood at $595.7 million, rising to $610.6 million in January 2021. The subsequent years witnessed a steady escalation:
- January 2022: $754.6 million
- January 2023: $829.5 million
- January 2024: $907.9 million
- January 2025: $957.5 million
- January 2026: $1.3 billion
This marks the first time Ankara has surpassed the $1 billion threshold in January, solidifying its position as a significant contributor to the national economy.
Top Export Destinations
A detailed breakdown of Ankara’s export destinations in January reveals that the United Kingdom was the primary market, with exports totaling $162.1 million. The top five export destinations were:
- United Kingdom: $162.1 million
- United States: $121.9 million
- China: $102.7 million
- Syria: $91.7 million
- Germany: $70.5 million
Leading Export Sectors
Manufacturing industry products were at the forefront of Ankara’s exports last month. The leading categories included:
- Weapons and Ammunition: $259.3 million
- Motor Vehicles: $164.8 million
- Electrical Machinery and Devices, Sound and Television Recording/Transmitting Devices: $158.6 million
- Boilers, Machinery, Mechanical Devices and Tools: $153.5 million
- Iron or Steel Articles: $86.7 million
These figures underscore the diversity and strength of Ankara’s industrial base, particularly in high-value manufacturing sectors.
Furthermore, when examining exports based on the province of activity, Ankara’s foreign sales increased by 56% from $618.6 million to $965.3 million between January 2022 and January 2026.
This record-breaking start to 2026 positions Ankara for continued economic growth and highlights its crucial role in Turkey’s overall export strategy.
Source: https://www.trthaber.com/haber/ekonomi/ankara-2026ya-ihracat-rekoruyla-girdi-935818.html
