New import tariffs implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump have deeply affected global trade balances while offering significant competitive advantages to Turkey. PLASFED President Ömer Karadeniz stated that among the import tariffs applied by the U.S. to 185 countries, Turkey has one of the lowest rates, providing Turkey a major advantage in terms of export and investment. He expressed that the high taxes imposed by the U.S. on China and Asian countries have positioned Turkey as an alternative supplier, stating, “The plastic sector emerges as a key sector during this process.”
The customs duties implemented by the U.S. as of 2025 continue to significantly affect global trade balances. In line with decisions made by President Donald Trump, varying rates of tariffs have been imposed on different countries and product groups. As of April 5, the U.S. has begun applying a 10% customs tax on products imported from all countries, with much higher rates set for some nations.
This new decree, which includes import tariffs on 185 countries, has shaken the foundations of global trade while Turkey has gained a strategic advantage due to its low tax rates.
Ömer Karadeniz, PLASFED President, noted that the high customs taxes imposed by the U.S. on China and other Asian countries present a significant opportunity for Turkey to boost its competitiveness. He stated, “Especially the textile, machinery, white goods, and plastic sectors have the potential to fill this gap. The plastic industry, which indirectly serves about 45 sectors, can play a key role during this period.”
“A Strategic Opportunity for Turkey”
Karadeniz indicated that this new tariff regime imposed by the U.S. could trigger global inflation in the short term, but from Turkey's perspective, this environment could open important doors for both commercial partnerships and economic growth. He emphasized the need to stand out in competitiveness and make good use of this window of opportunity, noting that these developments could reshape Turkey's export routes.
The Plastic Sector is Turkey's Leading Exporter to the U.S.
Turkey's chemical industry, the second-largest export sector, achieved $1.5 billion in exports to the U.S. in 2024. In the first three months of 2025, the plastic industry emerged as the leading sector exporting to the U.S. among chemical product groups. PLASFED President Karadeniz explained:
“The high tariffs imposed by the U.S. on our Asian competitors are opening new doors for the Turkish industry. Particularly as the plastic sector, we are closely monitoring these developments and aim to increase our export volume through prompt actions. Swift and decisive steps in this direction could strengthen Turkey's position in the global supply chain.”
Export Success in Europe Can be Transferred to the U.S.
Karadeniz noted that U.S. companies are seeking alternative suppliers as they move away from China, emphasizing that Turkey is a strong candidate in this search. The PLASFED President stressed that if the export success demonstrated in Europe is transferred to the U.S., Turkey could significantly increase its exports.
Translated by Artificial Intelligence
