First Quarter in Türkiye's Automotive Industry: Production and Export Outlook
OSD According to the data, in the first quarter of 2026, the Turkish automotive sector followed a balanced course in production and exports. Total production decreased by 7% compared to the same period of the previous year, falling to 321.856 units. Automobile production, on the other hand, decreased by 18% compared to the same month of the previous year, falling to 181.364 units. Including tractor production, total production was recorded at 327.016 units. This picture presents a clear breakdown in the sector in light of external demand conditions and domestic market dynamics.
On the export sideIn the first three months, total automotive exports decreased by 15% in terms of units, while car exports declined by 29%. Total exports reached 215.323 units, with car exports totaling 106.341 units. The foreign trade balance and the global demand resolution process emerged as decisive factors directly influencing investment decisions in the sector. The total export value in the first quarter was measured at $9,9 billion.
Domestic car share The share of domestic production rose by 4 points to 35%. OSD President Cengiz Eroldu assessed the strengthening of domestic production and the domestic market: “In the first quarter of last year, this rate was 31%. For the whole of 2025, the domestic share was 29%. Now, 35% in the first quarter shows a significant increase.” The domestic market share in light commercial vehicles stood out with its increase from 22% to 23% in 2022-2023, and in passenger cars from 32% to 36%. This increase indicates that investments are beginning to bear fruit.
The sector's foreign trade deficit It stands out at $1,3 billion. Eroldu said, "The January-February period showed a near-zero start; however, the internal balance of the automotive industry will be closely monitored in 2026 as well." Comparisons with China and the EU also highlight the criticality of foreign trade differences. It was noted that the deficit with China is in the billions of dollars, while for the EU, the difference is around €473 million in 2025.
The impact of war on exports This is being felt globally. War and geopolitical developments have triggered downward revisions in production and exports for 2026. OSD revised its previous forecasts downwards by 4% for exports and 2% for total production. A contraction is also predicted in the Turkish market compared to 2025. This reinforces the need for companies to restructure their production plans and supply chain strategies.
- Domestic market dynamicsThe increase in local content and domestic market share indicates that return on investment is accelerating.
- External demand and competitionThe positioning between Europe and China affects the trade deficit and balances the return/cost ratio.
- Impacts on the futureWar and geopolitical risks are impacting export routes and production capacity, triggering strategic decisions.
The main theme emphasized in OSD's speeches is, strengthening domestic production ve balanced growth in exports That became the goal. For industry stakeholders, this period focuses on managing fragile elements such as investment areas, the resilience of production networks, and energy costs.
The relevant data and comparisons create a clear roadmap for the sector going forward: maintaining and increasing domestic market share is critical for sustainable growth in external demand.
