Speaking at the Stars of Export Awards Ceremony for Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals, organized under the sponsorship of Turkish steelmaker İzmir Demir Çelik Sanayi A.Ş., Yalçın Ertan, chairman of Turkey-based Aegean Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Exporters Association, stated that the sector maintained its production and export performance in 2025 despite difficult global conditions.
Mr. Ertan emphasized that the sector has sustained a strong global presence thanks to its broad product range, ability to access different markets, and capacity to adapt quickly to changing conditions.
Export target exceeded
Noting that 2025 was a period marked by weak global demand, tightening access to finance, and rising protectionist trade policies, Mr. Ertan stated that, despite all challenges, the sector exceeded its initial export target of $2.2 billion set at the beginning of the year. He stated that the sector closed the year with $2.59 billion in exports, adding that this performance demonstrates the sector’s resilience.
Capacity utilization remained at 62.4 percent
On the production side, Ertan pointed out that the sector’s full potential has not yet been utilized. He stated that the capacity utilization rate stood at 62.4 percent in 2025, indicating that the sector’s production strength has not been fully activated.
Recalling that Turkey’s crude steel production reached 38.1 million mt in 2025, Ertan noted that the 3.3 percent year-on-year increase shows that production capability has been maintained despite challenging conditions.
Cost pressures and financing challenges
Weak global demand, price pressure, high energy costs and tight access to financing were highlighted as the main factors limiting production and export processes. Domestically, sensitivities in economic balances led the sector to adopt a more cautious approach. Ertan also stated that conflicts in nearby regions have negatively affected energy prices and supply chains, increasing costs and making planning processes more sensitive.