Ankara’s exports for the first three months of 2026 reached an impressive $4.16 billion, demonstrating a significant year-on-year increase of 18.8%. This robust performance comes despite a slight overall decrease in Turkey’s total exports during the same period.
Ankara’s Export Growth Defies National Trend
According to data released by the Ministry of Trade, Ankara’s exports in the January-March 2026 period climbed to $4,162,943,000. This figure represents a substantial rise from the $3,504,561,000 recorded in the first quarter of 2025. In contrast, Turkey’s total exports for the same period saw a 3.1% decrease compared to 2025, settling at $63.3 billion.
Key Export Destinations for Ankara
A detailed analysis of Ankara’s export destinations reveals that the United Kingdom was the leading market in the first quarter, with exports totaling $429,405,000. The United States followed closely with $362,079,000 in exports. Other significant markets included Slovakia ($352,808,000), China ($302,043,000), and Germany ($251,033,000).
Automotive Sector Leads the Way in Exports
The automotive industry emerged as the top-performing sector in Ankara’s first-quarter exports, generating $498,385,000. This was closely followed by the electrical and electronics sector, which contributed $473,286,000. Machinery and parts accounted for $403,852,000, while chemical products and derivatives brought in $378,804,000. Mining products also made a significant contribution with $364,974,000.
Sectors with Fastest Export Growth
Several sectors experienced remarkable growth during this period. The ornamental plants and products sector saw the most rapid increase, soaring by 684.8%, albeit from a low base. The cement, glass, ceramics, and soil products sector grew by 100.1%, while hazelnuts and products increased by 99.5%. The electrical and electronics sector also showed strong growth, expanding by 62.4%.
This positive export trend for Ankara highlights the city’s growing economic prowess and its crucial role in Turkey’s trade landscape, particularly in key manufacturing and industrial sectors.
Source: https://www.trthaber.com/haber/ekonomi/ankaranin-3-aylik-ihracati-4-milyar-dolari-asti-940238.html
