Turkey is to become top ten nations in maritime trade

(MENAFN) Türkiye is on track to become one of the world’s top 10 nations in maritime trade thanks to the strength of its national merchant fleet, according to the country's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, as reported by various sources.

Highlighting Türkiye’s strategic location along key international transport routes and its status as a peninsula, the minister referenced the country’s sovereignty over its territorial waters, which has been in effect since July 1, 1926, with the enactment of the Cabotage Law.

“Shipping is not only the backbone of global trade and the lifeblood of the global economy, but also it is a profession,” he stated, expressing confidence in the capabilities of Turkish maritime professionals and the broader industry.

He emphasized ongoing efforts to support the green transition within the maritime field, focusing on innovation, education, and advanced technologies to ensure long-term, sustainable growth.

The minister noted that Türkiye is actively enhancing its maritime safety and security by offering high-quality services and infrastructure. He also pointed out that over the past 23 years, the government has implemented major reforms in the sector, including improved ship inspections, real-time monitoring systems, upgraded shipbuilding infrastructure, and coastal developments.

He underscored that safeguarding maritime operations is not only vital for the sector itself but also has implications for global energy distribution and food supply chains.

Türkiye’s geographical position plays a critical role in global trade, especially due to the Turkish Straits—the Canakkale and Istanbul straits—which connect the continents of Asia and Europe.

According to the minister, the straits serve as a major thoroughfare, with more than 40,000 ships transiting annually. In the first quarter of this year alone, 9,351 vessels moved through the Istanbul Strait carrying 141.1 million metric tons of cargo, while the Canakkale Strait recorded 10,652 transits with 225.5 million metric tons of goods.

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