China Oversupply and Global Barriers Squeeze Margins
China-driven oversupply and falling global prices are intensifying pressure on the Turkish steel industry. At the same time, rising quotas and tariffs—especially in the European Union—are making competition even tougher. Sector representatives say unprotected competition is no longer sustainable and stronger domestic and export safeguards are urgently needed.
In 2025, Turkey exported 19.4 million tons of steel worth $16.5 billion, with an average price of $851 per ton. Total production reached 38.1 million tons, positioning Turkey as Europe’s largest steel producer and seventh worldwide. However, shrinking margins and rising costs continue to weigh heavily on producers.
Costs Rising, Competition Hardening
Industry leaders underline that nearly half of Turkey’s steel production depends on imported inputs, creating a structural cost disadvantage. With labor costs tripling in dollar terms over the past three years and state-backed competition in Asia, companies warn that without sustainable support mechanisms, further shift reductions and job losses may follow.
Keywords: #SteelIndustry #TurkishSteel #ChinaOversupply #GlobalTrade #TradeProtection #SteelExports #CBAM #Manufacturing #IndustrialEconomy #EuropeSteel