A New Phase in Türkiye–Gulf Trade: Volume Surpasses $35 Billion in 2025

TASCA
5 hours ago
2 min read

Economic and trade relations between Türkiye and the Gulf countries have gained strong momentum in 2025, with total trade volume exceeding $35 billion. Recent data indicates that intensified diplomatic engagement and expanding economic cooperation have begun to translate into tangible commercial outcomes.

Strong Recovery and Sustained Growth in Trade

According to official figures, trade between Türkiye and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has followed a steady upward trajectory since 2021. Total trade volume, which stood at approximately $27 billion in 2023, increased to $32 billion in 2024, before surpassing $35 billion in 2025.

The growth has been largely driven by expanding trade with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, which remain Türkiye’s key partners in the Gulf region.

Key Sectors Driving Growth

The rise in trade volume reflects the complementary structure of the two economies. Türkiye’s exports to Gulf countries are primarily concentrated in the following sectors:

Construction and building materials
Machinery and industrial equipment
Food and agricultural products
Defense industry and advanced technologies
Furniture and consumer goods

Imports from the Gulf region into Türkiye are mainly composed of energy products, petrochemicals, financial investments, and capital inflows, reinforcing a mutually beneficial trade framework.

Rising Investments and Capital Flows

Beyond trade, direct investments from Gulf countries into Türkiye have also increased significantly. Experts estimate that total Gulf-origin investments between 2022 and 2025 have exceeded $20 billion, with strong interest in finance, real estate, energy, defense industries, logistics, and technology.

During the same period, Turkish companies have undertaken infrastructure, contracting, and service projects across the Gulf region with a total value approaching $30 billion, further strengthening economic ties.

Medium-Term Outlook and Targets

Officials and industry representatives have highlighted a medium-term objective of increasing total trade volume between Türkiye and Gulf countries to $50 billion. Achieving this target is expected to involve expanded trade agreements, enhanced investment incentive mechanisms, and a greater number of joint business forums.

Strategic Assessment

Experts note that Türkiye–Gulf economic relations have moved beyond short-term fluctuations and are evolving into a measurable, sustainable, and strategic partnership model. Rising trade figures and investment flows point to deeper regional economic integration and long-term cooperation.

The 2025 data confirms that Türkiye’s economic engagement with the Gulf region has entered a new and more advanced phase, characterized by stronger trade volumes, increased investment activity, and growing strategic alignment.