With $10 billion in exports to Africa during the first half of 2025, Turkey is rapidly expanding its influence on the continent—leveraging trade, diplomacy, security cooperation, and cultural engagement.
Since launching its “Opening to Africa” policy in 2003, Turkey has steadily built its presence across the continent, becoming a key economic and political player. The results are tangible: in just the first six months of 2025, Turkish exports to Africa reached $10 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of more than 16%, according to Turkey’s Ministry of Trade.

Trade on the Rise
In 2003, total trade between Turkey and African countries stood at just $5.4 billion. Fast forward to 2023, that figure had climbed to $40.7 billion, and current projections for 2025 point to $50 billion in total trade volume. Sub-Saharan Africa now accounts for nearly 65% of Turkey’s African exports, with leading destinations including Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal.
Key exports include construction materials, iron and steel products, textiles, home appliances, processed foods, and automotive goods.
Expanding Diplomatic Presence
Diplomacy plays a central role in Turkey’s African strategy. In 2002, Turkey had only 12 embassies across the continent. As of 2025, that number has grown to 44, creating an extensive diplomatic footprint. In turn, 38 African countries now have embassies in Ankara, reflecting a deepening bilateral engagement.
This expanded network has facilitated over 26 bilateral security agreements, with countries such as Mali, Somalia, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Turkey is also a key exporter of defense equipment, including its well-known Bayraktar TB2 drones, now used by several African nations.
Soft Power and Cultural Outreach
Beyond commerce and defense, Turkey is investing heavily in long-term influence through education, religion, and humanitarian work. Institutions such as TİKA (Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency), the Maarif Foundation, and the Turkish Red Crescent are actively implementing development projects in sectors like health, education, and agriculture.
More than 25,000 African students have studied in Turkey on government scholarships since 2010. Meanwhile, Turkish-funded schools and religious institutions now operate in over 15 countries.

Looking Ahead
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized Turkey’s long-term commitment during the 2024 Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit in Istanbul, stating:
“Our partnership with Africa is not a temporary alignment—it’s built on reciprocity, solidarity, and a shared future.”
With new industrial zones under development, more than 60 African cities connected by Turkish Airlines, and expanding cooperation in energy and mining, Turkey aims to entrench its status as a top-tier emerging partner for African nations.
Key Figures – 2025 Outlook
- $10 billion in exports to Africa (H1 2025)
- 44 Turkish embassies across Africa
- 38 African embassies in Turkey
- Over 25,000 African students educated in Turkey
- 65% of exports go to Sub-Saharan Africa
- Over 60 African destinations served by Turkish Airlines
- Trade goal for 2025: $50 billion