Türkiye’s exports to African countries rose by 12% year-on-year to US$11 billion during the first half of 2026, highlighting the growing strength of trade relations and economic cooperation between Türkiye and the African continent.
According to data from the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly (TİM), the increase reflects Ankara’s continued focus on expanding commercial partnerships with African nations through its long-term trade diplomacy strategy.
Türkiye has prioritised Africa as a key economic partner since launching its Strategy for Developing Commercial and Economic Relations with African Countries in 2003. The initiative seeks to promote mutual investment, expand the participation of Turkish companies in infrastructure and development projects, and strengthen collaboration between Turkish and African businesses.
Morocco remained Türkiye’s largest export destination in Africa during the January to June period, receiving goods worth approximately US$2.2 billion. Egypt followed with exports valued at nearly US$2 billion, while Libya imported US$1.3 billion. Algeria received exports worth US$950.9 million, with Tunisia completing the top five destinations at US$619.4 million.
Türkiye’s investments in Morocco are concentrated in sectors including automotive manufacturing, textiles, mining, logistics, cleaning products, and iron and steel production. The free trade agreement between the two countries continues to support stronger commercial relations by facilitating market access and encouraging new investment opportunities.
Around 250 Turkish companies currently operate in Morocco, and the country’s preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal are expected to create additional opportunities for Turkish firms in construction, transport infrastructure, engineering and related industries.
Egypt remains Türkiye’s largest trading partner in Africa and the continent’s second-largest destination for Turkish investment. Both countries have set an ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to US$15 billion.
Turkish businesses have established a strong presence in Egypt across textiles, chemicals, manufacturing and tourism, while contractors are expected to participate in the country’s planned development of 14 new smart cities. The two nations are also expanding cooperation in strategic sectors such as energy, mining, shipbuilding and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) maritime transport.
Trade with Libya continues to be driven by exports of machinery, furniture, food products, construction materials, and iron and steel products. The two countries also maintain close cooperation in infrastructure development, energy and trade.
Meanwhile, economic ties between Türkiye and Algeria continue to strengthen, particularly in the energy, industrial manufacturing, textile, iron and steel, and construction sectors. Both governments are working towards achieving a bilateral trade target of US$10 billion.
The continued growth in Türkiye’s exports to Africa reflects the expanding economic relationship between the two regions, with increased investment, infrastructure development and strategic partnerships expected to create further opportunities for trade and industrial cooperation in the years ahead.