Turkish exporters are navigating renewed payment bottlenecks when shipping goods to Russia, a trend attributed to intensified supervision and controls by Turkish authorities over the past two to three weeks. The situation, highlighted by Mustafa Gültepe, president of the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly, has been noted by Reuters as a significant development affecting bilateral trade finances.
Gültepe reported that payment difficulties in trade with Russia have become more common over the last 15 to 20 days. He also warned that, unless the government steps in with supportive economic policies, the current frictions could ease only after January. His assessment reflects a broader concern among Turkish exporters about the fragility of cross-border payments amid tighter regulatory scrutiny.
According to the assembly’s president, Turkish exporters are pressing for policy measures that bolster competitiveness in challenging global markets. He pointed to a notable contraction in orders from major purchasing groups, which reportedly fell by roughly 30 percent in the previous year. This drop aligns with expectations of a slower first quarter in 2024 for many Turkish exporting firms, potentially signaling a cautious market environment and adjustments in workforce planning.
Earlier reports noted a persistent deterioration in money transfers from Russia to Turkey that began in December 2023 and has continued to intensify. This ongoing disruption underscores the broader risk landscape facing exporters juggling international payment channels amid evolving sanctions regimes and financial controls.
In related context, health and safety considerations within the Russian industrial sector have been described as fragile by analysts, suggesting that the broader economic environment in the region adds another layer of uncertainty for Turkish trade partners. The convergence of payment friction, regulatory tightening, and sectoral volatility paints a complex picture for Turkish exporters seeking stable access to Russian markets while maintaining diverse export routes and risk mitigation strategies.
Industry observers emphasize that restoring smoother payment flows will require coordinated efforts between Turkish authorities and the business community. Measures such as streamlined compliance processes, clearer foreign exchange policies, and targeted support for exporters could help reduce the cost and risk of cross-border transactions. As the macroeconomic landscape evolves, Turkish firms may continue to adjust their strategies, diversify destinations, and optimize financing arrangements to preserve growth momentum in a cautiously optimistic environment. Reuters has tracked these developments, noting the evolving dynamics of payments and policy responses in this sensitive trade corridor.