The Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF), scheduled for October 16–17 in Istanbul, is expected to reinforce economic cooperation between Türkiye and African nations as mutual trade is projected to surpass $35 billion by the end of the year.
Nail Olpak, chair of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK), revealed that Türkiye’s exports to Africa reached $14.6 billion and imports stood at $7.7 billion between January and August 2025.
Major Turkish exports to the continent include machinery, iron and steel, energy, and food products, while imports primarily consist of energy, agricultural goods, cocoa, and minerals. Olpak said Türkiye aims to raise its trade with Africa to $40 billion next year and up to $70 billion in the long term.
He emphasised that Türkiye’s Africa strategy is anchored in a “win-win” partnership, focusing on diversification beyond North Africa toward Sub-Saharan markets through logistics centres and local production. The plan also includes expanding Turkish Eximbank financing, promoting free trade incentives, strengthening defence and contracting sectors, and increasing scholarships for African students.
With participation expected from over 4,000 businesspeople, as well as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, First Lady Emine Erdoğan, and Trade Minister Ömer Bolat, the Forum will prioritise collaboration in agriculture, renewable energy, mining, logistics, defence, and digital technologies.