ForInvest – the Automotive Aftermarket Products and Services Association (OSS) – continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Türkiye’s automotive industry. With strong participation from members and key stakeholders, OSS has been working to ensure the sustainable growth of the aftermarket sector by voicing industry concerns directly to government institutions.
A recent consultation meeting at the YEDPA Trade Center brought together major figures from the automotive sector, including Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat, deputy ministers, and senior officials. The event highlighted the sector’s importance as both an economic powerhouse and a guarantor of public safety through its role in the production and distribution of critical spare parts.
Local Production at the Core of Türkiye’s Automotive Strength
Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat underlined the significance of local production in the automotive sector. He emphasized that Türkiye’s automotive backbone is built upon strong domestic contributions:
“Türkiye’s automotive ecosystem is powered by major producers such as Ford Otosan, Toyota, Hyundai Assan, Oyak Renault, Tofaş, and our national electric vehicle, Togg. Together, these manufacturers create jobs for nearly 400,000 people. When we include suppliers, service providers, spare parts dealers, and mechanics, the total employment surpasses one million. Türkiye began its automotive journey in 1971 with assembly-based production, but over time has significantly increased its localization rate. Today, with an annual production of 1.5 million vehicles, Türkiye is the 13th largest automotive manufacturer in the world and ranks fourth in Europe. The Turkish brand, both in vehicles and parts, has become a symbol of quality and technology across the continent.”
Bolat highlighted that the transformation achieved in the last two decades has elevated Türkiye into a respected position globally, with its manufacturing capabilities recognized for high standards and strong innovation.
Export Leadership and Record-Breaking Targets
The minister also drew attention to the automotive industry’s role as the leading sector in Türkiye’s exports for the past 15 years. In 2023, the sector recorded exports worth 37.2 billion dollars, with 16 billion dollars directly from the aftermarket and spare parts industry. When including the value added by local suppliers to vehicles produced in Türkiye, the figure rises to 24 billion dollars – nearly two-thirds of total automotive exports.
Bolat expressed optimism for 2025, stating that this year’s automotive exports are on track to exceed 40 billion dollars. “If we maintain the current growth pace, we will surpass 41 billion dollars. This will be a historic milestone – one that we can proudly celebrate as a ‘41 kere maşallah’ moment for our industry,” he said.
He also noted the global shift toward electric vehicles, with 11.7 million EVs sold worldwide in the previous year. Türkiye, too, is experiencing rapid growth in electric vehicle adoption, underscoring the importance of adapting policies and protecting local producers from unfair competition through measures such as additional tariffs and safeguard duties.
The Aftermarket Sector as a Driving Force
OSS Association Chairman Ali Özçete stressed the crucial role of the spare parts industry, often overlooked compared to new vehicle exports. He pointed out that while spare parts may be perceived as simple consumer goods, they are in fact critical to road safety and public security.
“With Türkiye’s 2023 automotive exports standing at 37.2 billion dollars, many assume that the main contribution comes from vehicle sales. However, the largest share belongs to spare parts exports, making our sector the true champion of the industry. This demonstrates that the aftermarket is not just complementary but one of the most vital pillars of automotive manufacturing,” said Özçete.
He added that the association’s meeting with government officials provided an opportunity to address pressing challenges:
The dangers posed by counterfeit spare parts in the market.
The need for global brands to integrate more local suppliers into their production chains.
The importance of creating a predictable investment environment.
Policy responses to incentive strategies offered by competitor countries like Egypt.
According to Özçete, the government’s willingness to listen to these issues and commit to action was highly encouraging.
Safeguarding Türkiye’s Position in a Transforming Global Market
Both government officials and industry leaders agree that the automotive sector is undergoing one of its greatest transformations in history, particularly with the rise of electrification, digitalization, and sustainability requirements. For Türkiye, ensuring competitiveness means not only protecting its achievements but also strengthening local innovation and increasing its role in international supply chains.
OSS emphasized that aftermarket products should not be seen as an extension of new car sales but as a strategic industry that enhances road safety, drives employment, and sustains export growth. By focusing on combating counterfeit parts, promoting domestic producers, and securing fair competition in global trade, the association believes Türkiye can further consolidate its place as a key player in the international automotive ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The meeting at YEDPA demonstrated once again that Türkiye’s automotive industry, supported by its robust aftermarket sector, is not just an export leader but also a symbol of technological capability and industrial resilience. As global markets shift toward electric mobility and new production models, Türkiye is determined to remain a strong player by combining government support with the dynamism of its local suppliers.
ForInvest and OSS Association will continue to amplify the voice of the aftermarket sector, ensuring that it receives the recognition and policy support it deserves. With strong collaboration between government institutions and industry players, Türkiye’s automotive sector is poised to reach new milestones in both exports and innovation.
