Exporters particularly from the southern province of Adana, who have the benefit of geographical proximity to a flourishing Middle Eastern market, have set their eyes on the region, expecting to secure an increased share in exports. Adana’s exporters say they have failed to reach the desired level in exports to the Middle East thus far and that the global financial crisis in 2009 made things even worse. However, business representatives note, they still have the opportunity to get a firmer grip on the region.
Turkey’s recent achievements in relations with Middle Eastern countries have boosted its popularity in the region more than ever. Encouraged by this fact, exporters hope to further expand their presence in the region. Such key developments as the abolishment of visa requirements with Syria, for instance, are accepted as the potential driving force behind mutual trade with the region. Trade associations, in this regard, have intensified their quest to define strategies that will help boost exports to the Middle East.
Adana Chamber of Commerce (ATO) President Şaban Baş says export firms from Adana have the distinct advantage of geographical proximity to neighboring countries, some of the world’s fastest growing markets. Referring to the abolishment of visa requirements with Syria, he said, “We believe this rapprochement will benefit both economies even sooner than anticipated.”
Baş said that Turkish exporters should conduct extended market research in the region. “We need to review our strategy in exports to the Middle East. There are some gaps in the market. Our neighbor Syria, for instance, makes some $30 billion worth of imports every year, but Adana’s share from this is only $65 million.” He said they will focus on the reasons behind the low export levels and work to find better ways of improving mutual trade.
Adana Chamber of Industry (ADASO) head Ümit Özgümüş says they have decided to meet with businessmen from the Middle East more often in 2010. “We are planning to take business trips to Syria, for instance. In this way, we expect to introduce our entrepreneurs to more businessmen in the region and open the way for mutual trade deals and partnerships,” he said. Businessmen from the region would also be invited to Turkey as part of the same “opening” efforts.
The Independent Industrialists and Businessmen’s Association (MÜSİAD) Adana representative Bilal Nadir Gök notes that the province has recently managed to increase exports with neighboring countries from 5 percent to 25 percent, thanks to efforts by the government and business circles, and that they have faith in this positive environment continuing to benefiting entrepreneurs in 2010. Gök emphasized that Turkey has the potential to become the largest provider in the region in the coming years.
