Cast Iron Prices Rise in Black Sea Ports on Turkish Demand

The increase in demand for Russian cast iron in Turkey has resulted in higher prices for this raw material in Black Sea ports, reaching $310 per ton. Over the past ten months, exports of cast iron from Russia to Turkey have more than doubled, allowing Russian companies to capture almost 80% of the supplies to the country.

This market shift highlights the growing reliance on Russian raw materials in the Turkish metallurgy sector. In 2026, the demand in Turkey could be further supported by the tightening of environmental regulations in the European Union, which may provide a competitive edge to Turkish metallurgists by limiting alternatives from EU sources.

These developments underscore the interconnected dynamics of global trade in metals, particularly in the Black Sea region, where logistical advantages play a key role in pricing and supply chains. The situation reflects broader economic pressures and regulatory changes influencing international commodity flows.

The demand for Russian cast iron in Turkey has directly contributed to an elevation in prices within Black Sea ports. This raw material, essential for metallurgical processes, now commands $310 per ton, marking a notable increase driven by heightened import needs from the Turkish market.

Black Sea ports serve as critical hubs for the export of such commodities, facilitating efficient shipping routes to regional buyers. The price adjustment reflects the immediate response of the market to surging orders, ensuring that supply aligns with the growing requirements of Turkish industries.

This development positions the Black Sea region as a focal point for metal trade dynamics, where external demand influences local pricing structures without interruption.

Exports of cast iron from Russia to Turkey have experienced significant expansion over the initial ten months of the year. The volume has grown more than twofold, indicating a robust increase in trade volumes between the two nations.

This growth underscores the strengthening economic ties in the metals sector, with Russian producers ramping up shipments to meet the escalating needs of Turkish buyers. The timeframe highlights a period of accelerated activity, transforming previous export patterns.

Such expansion not only boosts revenue for Russian exporters but also solidifies supply chains that depend on reliable cross-border logistics across the Black Sea.

Russian companies have secured a commanding position in the Turkish cast iron market, accounting for nearly 80% of all supplies. This dominance has been achieved through consistent delivery and competitive positioning amid rising demand.

The high market share demonstrates the effectiveness of Russian production capabilities in fulfilling international orders, particularly for raw materials like cast iron used in steelmaking. Turkish importers have increasingly turned to these suppliers, reducing reliance on other sources.

This concentration of supply from Russia influences overall market stability, ensuring that the bulk of the commodity flow originates from a single, efficient origin point.

Looking toward 2026, the demand for cast iron in Turkey is poised for continued support from evolving global regulations. The European Union's planned tightening of environmental regulations could restrict certain exports, thereby enhancing opportunities for Turkish metallurgists.

These regulatory changes in the EU may limit the availability of alternative supplies, giving Turkish producers an advantage in accessing cost-effective raw materials like Russian cast iron. This shift could further integrate Turkey into regional supply networks, benefiting its industrial base.

In conclusion, the interplay of demand, exports, and regulatory frameworks points to a resilient market trajectory for cast iron trade. The Black Sea region's role will likely remain pivotal, as economic and environmental factors continue to shape commodity prices and flows, fostering sustained growth in bilateral trade between Russia and Turkey.