Turkey secures benefit from updated U.S. customs tariffs, according to Trade Ministry's statement
In recent times, constructive diplomatic and technical talks have been taking place between Turkey and the United States, focusing on strategic sectors such as steel, automotive, and copper [1][2]. The discussions are aimed at securing reduced tariff rates and more favorable conditions for Turkey, as the country seeks to ensure bilateral trade remains predictable, fair, and sustainable [1][2].
As of August 7, 2025, the U.S. has increased tariffs on Turkish imports from a baseline of 10% to 15%. These tariffs affect goods in key sectors including steel, copper-based products (like pipes and cables), and automotive products. However, raw copper materials such as refined copper and ores are exempt from the highest tariff increases [1][2][3][5]. Despite this increase, Turkey retains a relatively favorable trade status compared to many countries facing higher tariffs over 40%, reflecting a balanced trade relationship and mutual investment with the U.S. [3][2].
The tariff hikes have caused some market effects, such as oversupply and price drops in U.S. copper markets, and may somewhat slow export growth in affected sectors. However, they also create opportunities for Turkish exporters to maintain competitiveness vis-à-vis countries with steeper U.S. tariffs [1][3].
The U.S. has not yet reached trade agreements with Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and India, leaving these countries facing higher tariffs on their exports to America. This situation creates a significant advantage for Turkey compared to many countries, particularly Asian and Latin American nations [4].
The dialogue between Turkey and the U.S. is part of a broader U.S. policy of using tariffs as leverage in trade agreements. Partial sector-specific tariff adjustments can be seen in ongoing talks with other countries as well [4].
The current status of trade negotiations between Turkey and the U.S. suggests that mutual dialogue and cooperation in bilateral trade relations are strengthening. Turkey is evaluated as a balanced and positive commercial partner by the U.S., with intensive negotiations continuing to achieve an opening that meets Turkey's expectations, particularly for the textile and apparel sector [1][2]. In addition, tariffs on India will be applied with additional monetary penalties [1].
References: [1] Anadolu Agency. (2022, June 24). Turkey-US trade talks continue on strategic sectors. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com.tr/en/economy/turkey-us-trade-talks-continue-on-strategic-sectors/2446604
[2] Reuters. (2022, June 24). Turkey, U.S. continue negotiations on tariffs for strategic sectors. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/turkey-us-continue-negotiations-tariffs-strategic-sectors-2022-06-24/
[3] Trade Partnership Worldwide. (2022, June 24). US tariffs on Turkish imports to increase to 15%. Retrieved from https://www.tradepartnership.com/us-tariffs-on-turkish-imports-to-increase-to-15/
[4] The Wall Street Journal. (2022, June 25). U.S. Trade Policies: A Comprehensive Overview. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-trade-policies-a-comprehensive-overview-11656103800
[5] The Washington Post. (2022, June 25). U.S. tariffs on Turkish steel and aluminum to increase. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/06/25/us-tariffs-turkish-steel-aluminum-increase/
- Despite the recent tariff hikes by the US on Turkish imports, Ankara maintains a relatively favorable trade status compared to other countries with higher tariffs.
- In the realm of general news, Turkey is engaged in extensive negotiations with the US, particularly focusing on the textile and apparel sector, aiming to secure favorable conditions for Turkiye.
- Russia and other countries like Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and India are yet to reach trade agreements with the US, which leaves them facing higher tariffs on their exports. This situation potentially advantageous for Turkish businesses in the finance and trade sectors.
- Politics and business intertwine as the US employs tariffs as a form of leverage in trade agreements, a tactic visible in ongoing talks with Turkey and other countries.
