Since the 2000s, Turkey’s diplomatic ties with Latin America have significantly improved because to a strategic opening policy led by the Turkish Foreign Ministry. Turkey has become a major trading partner as a result of the astonishing 1,400% increase in trade volume between the country and the area over the past 20 years, from US$1 billion in 2002 to a record-breaking US$15 billion in 2021.
Turkey’s position as a strong regional trading partner has been cemented by the designation of 2006 as the Year of Latin America and the Caribbean, the founding of cultural institutions, the execution of more than 400 projects through the Turkish Cooperation and Development Agency, and the expansion of mutual diplomatic missions. The most recent Turkey-Colombia Trade Delegation and B2B Meetings, which took place from March 27–30, 2023, further demonstrated this commitment. Turkish Exporters Assembly and the Ministry of Trade are working together.
Over 200 fruitful encounters were held as a result of the event, which saw 62 Colombian and 25 Turkish companies actively participate. Raff Military Textile, a renowned Turkish business with a 50-year history in the production and distribution of military apparel, was one of the key players. Raff, a company renowned for its dedication to growth, innovation, and originality, grabbed the chance to investigate fresh possibilities for cooperation and expansion in Colombia.
Eray Yükselolu, General Manager of Raff Military Textile, expressed pleasure for the collaboration in Colombia and emphasised the importance of this alliance with Columbia, the second-largest military power in the region. Yükselolu said, “Our team will gain helpful insights into the local market through this collaboration.” from our Colombian partners, while local colleagues will benefit from our extensive network of customers & suppliers.”
Emphasizing mutual benefits derived from maintaining remarkable trade success achieved between Turkey and Latin America, he stated, “We strive to meet preferences and needs of customers worldwide with our extensive catalogue, ranging from camouflage and military clothing to police uniforms and military tents. We eagerly anticipate working closely with our Colombian business partners to achieve our shared goals.”
