In brief
Turkish companies plan to exhibit natural cosmetics and premium food items at Shanghai’s 9th China International Import Expo (Nov. 5‑10), targeting China’s Generation Z consumers. The Aegean Exporters' Associations will host 15 companies, shifting from raw materials toward high‑value niche products amid a 41% rise in Turkey’s exports to China. Officials aim for a $10 billion export goal, citing a growing demand for health‑focused and premium goods.
Turkish exporters are preparing to showcase natural cosmetics and premium foods at Shanghai’s 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) from Nov. 5 to 10, aiming to capture China’s Generation Z market, according to Xinhua.
The Aegean Exporters' Associations (AEA) announced that 15 Turkish companies will present their offerings, focusing on high‑value added products such as cosmetics derived from Turkish roses, functional foods, and premium nuts, olive oil, and honey.
AEA Coordinator President Muhammet Ozturk said Turkish exporters are shifting away from raw‑material exports toward niche products to appeal to modern Chinese consumers who now value health and quality. He noted that China hosts roughly 300 million consumers with European‑level purchasing power.
Chinese consumers, once savings‑oriented, are increasingly spending on high‑quality and healthy products.
Ozturk highlighted three key areas: natural rose‑based cosmetics, healthy and functional foods, and premium Turkish products such as hazelnuts, pistachios, and dried fruits. He added that “targeting Generation Z with personalized, niche products and localized packaging” is essential for long‑term success.
In the first nine months of 2026, Turkey’s exports to China rose 41% year‑on‑year from 2.12 billion USD to nearly 3 billion USD, the AEA reported. The country has set a medium‑term target of reaching 10 billion USD in exports to China.
Export composition in 2025 showed mining leading at 1.64 billion USD, followed by chemicals at 618.5 million USD and food exporters contributing 210 million USD. The AEA’s exports to China jumped 43% to 542 million USD, driven largely by mining, textiles and dried fruits.
Overall, Turkish firms see the CIIE as a launchpad to penetrate China’s fast‑growing Gen Z segment with premium, health‑focused products.
