Türkiye’s exports to Africa rise 12.6% to $13.3bn in seven months

Türkiye's exports to Africa surged 12.6% to $13.3 billion within the first seven months of 2026, a report by AA reveals. This upward trend is attributed to strengthening trade, infrastructure, and diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the African continent. July saw a 16.3% year-on-year increase in exports, amounting to $2.3 billion, according to the Türkiye-Africa Business Council Chairman Osman Aksoy.

Egypt demonstrated the strongest performance, with Turkish exports growing by 26.1% to $2.3 billion. South Africa's exports rose by 31.3% to $479 million, while shipments to Nigeria jumped 52.1% to $453.2 million. Libya saw exports reach $1.59 billion, while Tunisia's increased by 9.9% to more than $720 million. Niger's exports also climbed by 8% to over $302 million, while Morocco remained a significant destination with exports growing by 11.7% to $2.43 billion.

However, exports to Algeria declined by 18.8% to $1.09 billion. Aksoy credits the growth to Türkiye's long-term commercial diplomacy, expanding logistics networks, and improved connectivity between Türkiye and African markets. Turkish Airlines' connections to over 60 African destinations and the expansion of maritime container routes have also played a crucial role.

Aksoy emphasized Türkiye's focus on local production, joint investments, and flexible financing models to sustain growth in African markets. Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria were identified as strategic markets, particularly due to opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). South Africa offers prospects in renewable energy and industrial equipment, while Nigeria benefits from local-currency trade and direct supply of industrial and food-processing machinery.

Energy, infrastructure, construction, healthcare, agriculture, and food sectors present significant opportunities in Libya. Tunisia, Niger, and the broader Sahel region also hold promising potential for increased Turkish investment and trade.