Real sector's net foreign exchange deficit reached a record level at the end of 2025

The foreign exchange position deficit of the real sector, which is one of the key agendas of the Turkish economy, has reached its highest level in history as of the end of 2025. According to the latest data from the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey, the net foreign exchange deficit of companies operating outside the financial sector has reached 188.6 billion dollars.

The upward trend in recent years is also noteworthy. The net foreign exchange position deficit, which was 70 billion dollars at the end of 2023, rose to 148 billion dollars at the end of 2024, and to a record level by the end of 2025.

Economist Mahfi Eğilmez, in an assessment shared on his social media account, underlined that three main factors are effective in the background of this rise. In Eğilmez's words, "The contraction of credit limits domestically, the tendency for comfortable foreign currency borrowing created by the suppression of the exchange rate, and high interest rates in the country" stand out as the primary reasons for this record increase.

According to experts, restrictions on access to credit and rising interest rates cause companies to turn to foreign currency and increase their tendency to borrow in foreign currency. It is also emphasized that keeping the exchange rate under pressure for a long time increases the foreign exchange risk of the real sector.

Assessments made by economists indicate that the steps to be taken by policymakers regarding the foreign exchange deficit will be critical for ensuring financial stability in the coming period.

News Source: 12punto