In this episode of Invest in Türkiye Talks, we explore Türkiye's logistics sector with Turkish Forwarding and Logistics Association (UTİKAD) Chairman Bilgehan Engin. Engin highlights Türkiye's strategic advantages, the sector's challenges, and its alignment with global sustainability trends. As a key figure in logistics, UTİKAD plays a vital role in Türkiye's transformation into a regional and international logistics hub.
Founded in 1986, UTİKAD is Türkiye's largest non-governmental organization in logistics, representing companies across land, air, sea, and rail transportation. The association's mission is to foster a skilled workforce, publish industry-standard reports, and advocate for sustainable practices. Engin emphasizes UTİKAD's role in positioning Türkiye as the nexus of logistics.
UTİKAD provides extensive training programs and publishes widely respected industry reports. By introducing standards and codes of conduct, the organization ensures its members adhere to best practices in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Türkiye's unique location bridges Asia and Europe, making it a vital trade corridor. Engin underscores the significance of the Middle Corridor, which connects China to Europe through Türkiye's infrastructure, including the Marmaray Tunnel and the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge.
Ports like Istanbul Ambarlı and Mersin, along with the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, further strengthen Türkiye's logistics capabilities. Additionally, projects such as the Development Road, linking the Persian Gulf to Europe, enhance the country's strategic importance.
Sustainability is at the core of modern logistics. Engin explains how UTİKAD promotes green logistics through its Sustainable Logistics Certificate, encouraging eco-friendly practices such as the adoption of electric vehicles and energy-efficient warehouses. These initiatives align with Türkiye's broader strategy of integrating sustainability into its industrial policies.
By advancing intermodal logistics—combining rail, road, and sea transportation—UTİKAD helps reduce energy consumption and emissions, ensuring Türkiye remains competitive in global supply chains.
While Türkiye's logistics sector benefits from its strategic location, it faces challenges such as geopolitical tensions and regulatory hurdles. However, the sector also presents significant opportunities, driven by rising e-commerce demand and deeper integration into global supply chains. Engin highlights the potential for growth in renewable energy technologies, positioning Türkiye as a regional logistics powerhouse.
Looking ahead, UTİKAD is focused on modernization, digitalization, and sustainability. Emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain will enhance efficiency, while digital customs procedures aim to streamline operations.
UTİKAD is also committed to upskilling the workforce, partnering with universities to develop specialized programs in logistics and supply chain management. These initiatives ensure the industry remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.
With its strategic location and strong commitment to sustainability, Türkiye's logistics sector is poised for continued growth. Engin notes that ongoing investments and Türkiye's deeper integration into global trade networks make it an attractive destination for FDI. By aligning financial objectives with environmental progress, UTİKAD is shaping a sustainable future for Türkiye's logistics industry.