Turkey's trade minister meets auto industry groups over EU Made in EU rules

Trade Minister Ömer Bolat met representatives of Turkey's automotive sector on October 20, 2026, at the ministry in Ankara to discuss the risk that Turkey could be left out of the European Union's Made in EU rules. The meeting was first reported by DonanımHaber.

The ministry said talks with the EU continue with the aim of bringing Turkey fully into the framework. The meeting was attended by the heads and senior executives of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), the Automotive Exporters' Association (OİB), the Automotive Manufacturers' Association (OSD) and the Automotive Supplier Industry Association (TAYSAD). Participants discussed contacts with EU institutions and member states, and sector representatives shared their views on the steps ahead.

Where Turkey stands in the draft

Made in EU is part of the draft Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) under discussion in the EU. The rules aim to give priority to products of EU origin or, under certain conditions, to offer advantages to goods made in Europe. According to one source, the latest draft includes the United Kingdom but leaves Turkey out.

According to an assessment cited in the sources, if Turkey remains outside the scope, vehicles and parts made in Turkey may not qualify for some EU support schemes, public procurement, or measures that favor domestic production. If Turkey were included, companies investing in Turkey would be treated as producing in the EU and would not face additional duties or restrictions.

The ministry's position

The ministry said the Customs Union, in force since the start of 1996, has created strong economic integration, with the automotive industry among its most successful areas. It said a regulation meant to strengthen the competitiveness of European industry should not harm the existing investments and production networks of European carmakers.

The ministry said it has spent about a year conducting trade diplomacy with members of the European Parliament, the Council of the EU and the European Commission. It also noted that European automakers and industry representatives have explained to EU decision-makers the importance of production and investment in Turkey. The meeting agreed that contacts should continue at every level.