U.S. Exports to Turkey: Opportunities for Small Businesses

U.S. exports to Turkey total about $10 billion a year in 2010, up about 40 percent from 2009, according to U.S. government data.

Post WWII, Turkey has consistently been a close U.S. ally politically and commercially. Although its relationship with the U.S. has somewhat cooled in the past few years, it still remains a key business partner.

Turkey’s economy is strong, its government is committed to infrastructure building and “Made in USA” products and services have a “positive brand appeal” in the country, according to Export.gov.

In 2010, the U.S. Department of Commerce designated Turkey a priority market under President Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI). For U.S. businesses, it means their government will be helpful and aggressive in helping them export to Turkey.

“The U.S. Commercial Service in Turkey, with offices in Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir and our liaison relationship with the U.S. Consulate in Adana can help your American exporting firm get to market faster, cheaper, and position your company for long-term success,” stated Export.gov.

While U.S. exports to Turkey are dominated by big players like Boeing, Chevron and GE, there are also opportunities for small and medium businesses.

Below are some of the suitable sectors for exports identified by the U.S. government:

Franchising

Fast food restaurants, casual dining concepts, language training, computer training, children’s services, maintenance services, healthcare services, sports facilities, real estate services and hotels

Educational Services

Professional language training in Law; Business Administration; Marketing; and Technical English in Turkey and abroad

Computer-based training programs in English for primary schools, high schools and universities

MBA training and certificate courses for professionals in Turkey, particularly computer-based programs

Medical Equipment and Services

Disposable products, advanced med/surg equipment including angio-cath facilities, radiology, pathology, electronic diagnostic equipment, optical devices, parts and components of the medical devices, electronic instruments and appliances for physical and chemical analysis, vaccines, orthotic and prosthetic equipment, OR/ER systems

Telecommunication Equipment and Services

Number portability, 3G, Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), Mobile Video Streaming (MVS), WiMax technologies and services

Automotive Parts and Equipment

Tires, brake linings, gearboxes, clutches, shock absorbers, brakes, clutches, rings, filters, bumpers, lights, signaling equipment

Software

Software programs required for customer databases, emergency call services, corporate management and intelligent network operation centers