Haluk Kayabaşı, Chairman of PASSAD, delivered the opening speech at the summit, emphasizing that the healthy development of the stainless steel industry will make significant contributions to Turkey’s economic and social structure. Kayabaşı stated, “In response to emerging needs in our sector, we embarked on this path with the awareness of creating collective intelligence and a future for our country. Our aim is to strengthen the stainless steel industry, expand its use, and promote sustainable growth in the sector by addressing the challenges faced by both producers and consumers. By adopting an international perspective, we will closely follow global trends and innovations, contributing to the enhancement of our country’s competitiveness. To become a key player in the global stainless steel industry, we aim to maintain effective and continuous cooperation with all stakeholders operating in the sector.”
Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal, Rector of ITU and host of the summit, highlighted the strategic importance of stainless steel for both the defense industry and civil production, noting its critical role in the green and digital transformation process. Mandal remarked, “The protocol signed between ITU and PASSAD will strengthen the bridge between industry and academia, contributing to knowledge production, skilled human resources, and a culture of sustainable production. We know what we need to do for the future; the important question is how we do it. The answer to this ‘how’ lies in mutual learning, collaborative production, and an interdisciplinary vision.”
The summit attracted over 500 participants representing all stakeholders in the sector. Described as “the largest gathering of Turkey’s stainless steel industry,” the event highlighted the importance of replicating best practices in environmental protection, human health, and quality, ensuring sustainability, and sharing sectoral data. Participants shared their views on the position of stainless steel production in Turkey and the global market.
During the “International Stainless Steel Markets” session, the challenges facing the industry were discussed in detail. The pressure of dumped steel products on domestic producers, unfair competition, trade wars starting from the Trump administration, and protectionist policies in European Union countries were examined. Participants emphasized the need to increase Turkey’s strategically important stainless steel production and recommended applying trade defense measures, such as anti-dumping duties, to the stainless steel sector as well.
Other critical sessions at the summit included “Stainless Steel Trade and Logistics,” “Stainless Steel Usage and New Solutions,” “International Perspectives on Stainless Steel,” and “Stainless Steel Technology and Sustainability.” These sessions focused on sustainable practices in stainless steel production, innovation, technological advancements, and strategies to enhance the sector’s competitiveness.
PASSAD continues to conduct promotional and awareness-raising activities with numerous institutions and organizations to enhance international competitiveness. The summit provided an important platform to strengthen collaboration among industry stakeholders, increase knowledge sharing, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Turkey’s stainless steel sector.
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