Trabzon's export surge propels Eastern Black Sea to global trade spotlight

Trabzon's export prowess shines as the Eastern Black Sea region emerges as a key player in global trade in the January-February period.

The city witnessed a significant surge in exports, reaching a remarkable $211.85 million in the first two months of the year.

Saffet Kalyoncu, chairman of the Eastern Black Sea Exporters Association (DKIB), highlighted the diverse destinations of these exports, spanning 98 countries.

"While Italy, the Russian Federation, and Germany are the top three countries with the highest exports from Trabzon, countries with over 100% export increase are Peru, the People's Republic of China, Vietnam, Japan, Australia, and Malaysia."

He stated that the sectors with the highest exports were hazelnuts, aquatic products, fresh fruits and vegetables, vehicle spare parts, and defense industry, respectively.

Trabzon exports 200,000 firearms to 60 countries

In a separate development, Trabzon Gun Industry (TISAS), a firearms manufacturer in the region, reported exporting 200,000 firearms to 60 countries in 2023.

Established in 1993 in the Arsin Organized Industrial Zone in Trabzon, TISAS initially produced firearms for various units of the Turkish Armed Forces and the domestic market. 

Expanding its capacity each year, the company sold firearms to 60 countries, primarily the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Murat Alemdaroğlu, board member of TISAS, expressed pride in the company's evolution, highlighting plans to increase exports by approximately 30% in 2024.

'One of leading companies in firearm sector'

He emphasized the continuous improvement of infrastructure and capacity, stating, "We are the largest production facility in the Eastern Black Sea in terms of the defense industry."

Alemdaroglu pointed out that the rapid developments in Türkiye's defense industry in recent years have positively affected their companies. 

"Türkiye has a rapidly developing defense industry with superior products, making it a supplier of choice for many countries. We are also one of the leading companies in the firearm sector. Therefore, TISAS products are included in the inventory of many countries," he stated. 

Alemdaroglu noted that many of their products, especially the PX-9 model, are procured by law enforcement agencies in different countries, stating that products that successfully pass NATO-standardized tests are put into use.

He also emphasized their production of TUBITAK-supported projects through their research and development center. 

"Our innovative products are designed to meet the needs of law enforcement officers more effectively. We started sales in African and Central Asian countries and have since expanded our reach to include America and Europe," he said. 

Source: Newsroom