The new import tariffs implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump have deeply affected global trade balances while providing Turkey with significant competitive advantages. Ömer Karadeniz, President of PLASFED, stated that Turkey was given one of the lowest tariff rates among the 185 countries to which the U.S. applies import tariffs, emphasizing that this situation offers a considerable advantage for Turkey in terms of exports and investments. He expressed that the high taxes imposed by the U.S. on China and Asian countries have positioned Turkey as an alternative supplier, adding, "The plastic sector stands out as a key sector during this process."
The customs duties imposed by the U.S. as of 2025 continue to significantly impact global trade balances. Following the decisions made by President Donald Trump, various countries and product groups have been subjected to different tariff rates. As of April 5, the U.S. has begun to apply a 10% customs tax on imported products from all countries, while this rate has been set much higher for some countries.
With this new decree, which contains import tariffs for 185 countries, the stones in global trade are being shifted, and Turkey has gained a strategic advantage due to its low tax rate.
Ömer Karadeniz, President of PLASFED, noted that the high customs taxes imposed by the U.S. on China and other Asian countries could represent an important opportunity for Turkey to increase its competitiveness, stating, "Especially the textile, machinery, white goods, and plastic sectors have the potential to fill this gap. The plastic industry, serving approximately 45 sectors indirectly, can play a crucial role during this process."
A 'Strategic Opportunity for Turkey'
Karadeniz pointed out that the new tariff regime implemented by the U.S. could trigger global inflation in the short term, but from Turkey's perspective, this environment could open significant doors in terms of both commercial collaborations and economic growth. He emphasized the need to stand out in competitiveness and to make good use of this opportunity window, stating that these developments could reshape Turkey's export routes.
The Plastic Sector is the Leading Exporter to the U.S.
The chemical industry, which is Turkey's second-largest export sector, achieved exports worth $1.5 billion to the U.S. in 2024. In the first three months of 2025, the plastic industry, which is among the product groups in chemicals, emerged as the sector making the highest exports to the U.S. PLASFED President Karadeniz commented on this, saying:
“The high tariffs imposed by the U.S. on our Asian competitors are opening new doors for Turkish industry. Especially as the plastic sector, we closely follow these developments and aim to increase our export volume by taking swift action. The rapid and decisive steps taken in this direction can strengthen Turkey's position in the global supply chain.”
The Export Success Shown in Europe Can be Transferred to the U.S.
Karadeniz highlighted that U.S. firms are seeking alternative suppliers by moving away from China and emphasized that Turkey is a strong candidate in this search. The President of PLASFED pointed out that if the export success demonstrated in Europe can be transferred to the U.S., Turkey could significantly increase its exports.
Translated by Artificial Intelligence
