New import tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump have significantly impacted global trade balances, providing Turkey with important competitive advantages. PLASFED President Ömer Karadeniz stated that among the import tariffs applied by the U.S. to 185 countries, Turkey received one of the lowest rates, offering great advantages for Turkey in terms of exports and investments. Karadeniz noted that the high taxes imposed by the U.S. on China and other Asian countries have positioned Turkey as an alternative supplier, saying, "The plastic sector is emerging as a key sector during this period."
The customs duties implemented by the U.S. since 2025 continue to significantly affect global trade balances. According to decisions made by President Trump, different tariff rates have been introduced for various countries and product groups. Starting from April 5, the U.S. imposed a 10% customs duty on products imported from all countries. For some countries, this rate was set much higher.
This new decree, which includes import tariffs directed at 185 countries, has reshuffled the dynamics of global trade, while Turkey has gained a strategic advantage thanks to its low tax rate.
PLASFED President Ömer Karadeniz mentioned that the high customs duties imposed by the U.S. on China and other Asian countries could be a significant opportunity for Turkey to boost its competitiveness, stating, "Especially the textile, machinery, white goods, and plastic industries have the potential to fill this gap. The plastic industry, which indirectly serves approximately 45 sectors, can play a key role during this period."
“A Strategic Opportunity for Turkey”
Karadeniz highlighted 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 significant doors for both commercial collaborations and economic growth. He emphasized the need to stand out in competitiveness and to make the most of this opportunity window, asserting that these developments could reshape Turkey's export routes.
The Plastic Sector Contributes Most to Exports to the U.S.
In 2024, Turkey’s chemical industry, which is the second-largest export sector, achieved exports worth 1.5 billion dollars to the U.S. In the first three months of 2025, the plastic industry, which is part of the chemical product groups, emerged as the sector with the highest exports to the U.S. In a statement regarding the matter, PLASFED President Karadeniz said:
“The high tariffs imposed by the U.S. on our Asian competitors are opening new doors for Turkish industry. Especially as the plastic sector, we are closely following these developments and aim to increase our export volume by taking rapid action. The swift and decisive steps taken in this direction can strengthen Turkey's position in the global supply chain.”
Success in European Exports Can be Transported to the U.S.
Karadeniz indicated that U.S. companies are seeking alternative suppliers by moving away from China, emphasizing that Turkey is a strong candidate in this search. The President of the umbrella organization PLASFED noted that if the export success demonstrated in Europe can be transferred to the U.S., Turkey's exports could significantly increase.
Translated by Artificial Intelligence
