Turkish Food Export to Gulf Countries, Challenges and Strategies

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine Turkey's foreign trade with Gulf countries, focusing on the challenges and strategies for increasing foodstuff exports to the region. It also explored brand communication barriers and their development in the target markets. Data were collected from 5 domestic producers and 10 international customers, with participants rating each factor on a scale from 1 (least important) to 5 (most important). The study also aimed to investigate the role of brand communication in enhancing exports to Gulf countries. According to results of this research, developing new strategies for engaging with poor and economically weak countries can help ensure sustained and continuous trade with them. Developing region-specific product formulations that align with local taste preferences can enhance brand recognition and drive trade growth. Among external barriers, the highest-rated challenges were high tariff and non-tariff barriers, intense competition in international markets, unfavorable domestic regulations, and lack of government support or incentives. Internally, the most significant factors were the need to adjust export promotion strategies, high transportation and insurance costs, and insufficient or untrained export personnel. Successful global brands rely on clarity, consistency, and constancy the three Cs to strengthen personal and corporate branding. These traits are evident in media figures and CEOs who use personal branding to build business success. To boost exports to GCC countries and attract investment, continued information support is vital providing importers with market access details and updating Arabic platforms with investment opportunities and procedures.