Turkey Ranks Second After China in Global Exports: Minister Kacır’s Remarks

Minister Mehmet Erdem Kacır announced at the inauguration of Modern Cardboard's new plant in Zonguldak that Turkey has elevated its exports from $36 billion to $278 billion over the past 23 years, positioning the country as the world's second‑strongest exporter after China.

A New Export Era: Growth and Competitive Edge

Turkey's policies that prioritize value‑added production and export have boosted foreign trade volumes by 673 %. Minister Kacır emphasized, “This success stems from decisive political will and a stable investment climate,” highlighting the foundation of sustainable growth.

Strategic Importance of the Paper‑Cardboard Segment

The paper‑cardboard industry has become pivotal for both export potential and green‑transition goals. Within the EU Green Deal framework, recycling and carbon‑footprint reduction are emerging as decisive competitive factors.

Financial Incentives and Investment Package

■$850 million total investment cost of the Modern Cardboard facility.

■₺226 million cash support provided under the Green and Digital Transformation Programs.

■40 % tax reduction offered to enhance investment profitability.

■₺430 billion incentive package unlocking new sectoral investments.

Production Capacity and Employment Impact

The new plant, with an annual 650,000‑ton production capacity, will create 300 jobs once fully operational. This will revitalize regional employment and expand export‑driven manufacturing scale.

Rüzgar Ersoy – Director of Fintech and Banking: “Redirecting Turkey’s export trajectory toward high‑value, eco‑friendly sectors is crucial not only for the trade balance but also for financial stability and credit risk mitigation. Tax breaks and cash subsidies in capital‑intensive sectors like paper‑cardboard will improve the quality of risk‑weighted assets in banks’ loan portfolios and ease pressure on NIM (Net Interest Margin). Moreover, this attractive investment climate paves the way for broader adoption of fintech solutions and digital payment infrastructures.”