# Turkey economic strategy and trade role > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkey-economic-strategy-and-trade-role > Updated: 2026-10-22T11:09:01.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. At the 19th Verona Eurasia Economic Forum in Istanbul, Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek detailed Turkey’s strategic positioning within global trade, energy, and logistics networks. He described the nation as a vital link in connectivity, such as the railway freight corridor connecting China to the United Kingdom. To address global protectionism and fragmentation, Şimşek outlined a strategy of trade diversification through existing free trade agreements and ongoing negotiations with nations including Japan, Indonesia, Canada, and various Gulf states. He also highlighted the potential for growth in the service sector, specifically in tourism, health tourism, and the video game ecosystem. Regarding industrial and fiscal policy, the Minister announced that the government is offering advance loans for high-technology sector investments at rates significantly lower than market interest. He projected that Turkey’s national income would reach approximately $1.8 trillion by year-end, approaching $4 trillion when measured by purchasing power parity. Şimşek further noted that Turkey’s manufacturing value-added is becoming competitive with the ‘Asian Tigers’ and emphasized that low debt levels and budget deficits relative to other emerging markets enhance the country’s resilience against economic shocks. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-22: Mehmet Şimşek outlines Turkey’s economic goals and regional trade role Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek projects a national income of $1.8 trillion this year, highlighting Turkey’s growing role as a global logistics and manufacturing hub. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mehmet-imek-outlines-turkeys-economic-goals-and-regional-trade-role ### 2026-10-22: Minister Şimşek highlights Turkey's strategic role at Verona Eurasia Economic Forum Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek discussed Turkey's role as a global logistics and production hub at the 19th Verona Eurasia Economic Forum in Istanbul. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minister-imek-highlights-turkeys-strategic-role-at-verona-eurasia-economic-forum --- Cite as: Turkey economic strategy and trade role. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkey-economic-strategy-and-trade-role