The steel sector played an important role in Türkiye’s industrialization movement beginning in the 1930s. Steel is vital for the development of the existing industry as well as the establishment and growth of new industrial branches. Today, there are 24 electric arc furnaces (EAO), 7 induction furnaces, and 3 basic oxygen furnaces in Türkiye.

While Türkiye was the 10th largest steel producer in the world in 2001, by 2019 it became the 8th largest producer in the world and the 2nd largest in Europe. Between 2001 and 2011, however, it was the third fastest-growing steel producer in the world after China and India. It’s steel production has increased significantly since 2001, rising from 15 million tons to 33.7 million tons in 2019. 

The growth in the steel industry was due to strong local consumption. Crude steel consumption per capita in Türkiye rose to 405 kilograms in 2019 and this increase is expected to continue in the medium and long term. In addition to the strong demand in the country and dynamism in steel-using industries, It’s geographical position is also among the factors supporting exports and production.