White goods exports down 29% in March, alarm for Turkey's sector

Data from the Turkish White Goods Manufacturers Association (TURKBESD) indicate that Turkey's white goods exports contracted by 29% year-on-year in March 2026, falling to roughly 2.2 million units. The decline reflects a combination of weak external demand and persistent cost pressures facing manufacturers.

Monthly breakdowns show domestic sales contracted modestly while production fell by about 14% in March; at the quarterly level, exports were down approximately 23% in Q1 2026. Independent brokerage and sector analyses have echoed these figures, flagging a broad-based slowdown across main product groups.

Industry participants point to several drivers behind the export slump: softer consumer demand in key markets, aggressive pricing from Far East competitors and rising input and regulatory costs that erode margins. Sector reports highlight particularly steep declines in refrigerators and washing machines, which have historically been export pillars for Turkish manufacturers.

Although the white goods industry remains a significant employer and production hub for Turkey, the fall in export volumes raises questions about competitiveness and resilience of export channels. TURKBESD officials have warned of the risk that the recent downturn could become more persistent without measures to support domestic demand and reduce cost burdens on producers.

Analysts say that absent a pickup in global orders, exporters are likely to face ongoing revenue and margin pressure, with potential spillovers to supplier networks and investment plans. Market watchers will monitor monthly order intake, destination-market dynamics and any policy steps aimed at easing cost pressures as key indicators for a potential recovery.