This study examines the export relations between Türkiye and the Turkic world countries (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan), analyzing them at the sectoral level through the case of Kayseri province. These relations, which have developed on the basis of historical, cultural, and linguistic affinity, have transitioned into an economic dimension since the 1990s and have been further strengthened through institutional structures such as the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Türkiye’s exports to these countries have significantly increased in recent years, with the total export volume exceeding 10 billion USD as of 2023. Kayseri, a major center for furniture production in Türkiye, is taken as the focal point. In 2023, Kayseri achieved exports worth 3.75 billion USD, of which approximately 750 million USD came from the furniture sector. With over 620 companies, more than 28,000 employees, and a strong organized industrial zone infrastructure, Kayseri maintains a high production and foreign trade capacity. However, this potential is not fully utilized in the markets of the Turkic Republics. The main limiting factors for exports include insufficient logistics infrastructure, customs barriers, issues with payment systems, and differences in standardization. Research findings suggest that in order to enhance the export capacity of Kayseri’s furniture sector to the Turkic world, it is necessary to accelerate transportation projects—especially the Middle Corridor—expand free trade agreements, support digital export channels, and improve the sector's design and branding capacity. Furthermore, complementary measures such as vocational training, incentive policies, and regional trade fair organizations are proposed to ensure the sustainability of exports.
Export, Sectoral Analysis, Economic Cooperation