Türkiye’s manufacturing export climate improves for 17th consecutive month
U.S. rebound and steady Middle East demand drive modest gains in May, but sustained European recovery seen as critical for long-term export momentum
ISTANBUL, Türkiye (MNTV) — Türkiye’s manufacturing sector saw a continued improvement in external demand conditions in May, marking the 17th consecutive month of positive momentum, according to the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ISO).
The Manufacturing Export Climate Index, a key gauge of demand trends in Türkiye’s primary export markets, rose slightly to 51.0 in May from 50.8 in April, ISO reported. A reading above the 50-point threshold signals an improvement in the export environment.
While the monthly increase was modest, it underscores a sustained upward trend that began in early 2023, reflecting resilience in Turkish manufacturing exports amid lingering global trade uncertainties.
Analysts noted that stronger recoveries in Türkiye’s core European markets will be essential to maintaining this momentum in the second half of 2025.
One of the key drivers behind May’s improvement was a rebound in the United States—Türkiye’s second-largest export destination—where manufacturing output accelerated following a slowdown in April that marked the weakest pace in 19 months.
The Middle East also contributed positively to the export climate. The UAE recorded a notable rise in non-oil economic activity, despite the pace easing to its lowest since September 2021.
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait continued to show solid output growth, while Egypt, Lebanon, and Qatar reported declines.
The outlook in Europe, Türkiye’s largest regional trading partner, remained mixed. Economic activity expanded in Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, but key economies such as France, Germany, and Romania continued to struggle.
The United Kingdom showed signs of stabilization, with output unchanged in May after a slight contraction in April.
Elsewhere, Russia returned to growth after two months of contraction, while Uganda posted the strongest production growth globally—its fastest since August 2023.
In contrast, Mexico experienced the steepest decline, largely attributed to new U.S. import tariffs. Canada also continued to see a drop in manufacturing output.
“Despite ongoing global trade challenges, Turkish manufacturers continued to benefit from demand in key markets,” said Andrew Harker, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence.
“The U.S. recovery was particularly encouraging in May. Still, broader gains—especially from European partners—are needed to drive a more substantial improvement in conditions.”
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