In brief
At the 9th China International Import Expo in Shanghai, 15 Turkish companies will launch natural cosmetics, functional foods, and premium nuts aimed at China’s Generation Z. The Aegean Exporters’ Associations say Turkey’s exports to China rose 41% last year and set a $10 billion target. A key pitch is using Turkish roses in cosmetics and locally‑indicated packaging to appeal to modern Chinese consumers.
Turkish exporters are rolling out natural cosmetics, premium foods, and nuts at Shanghai’s 9th China International Import Expo, aiming to capture the taste of China’s Generation Z.
Lead‑organiser Aegean Exporters’ Associations (AEA) said 15 companies will exhibit products that move from raw materials to high‑value items such as rose‑derived cosmetics, health‑focused foods, and premium nuts and olive oil.
According to the AEA, Turkey’s exports to China rose by about 41 percent to nearly 3 billion dollars in the first nine months of 2026, up from 2.12 billion dollars the year before.
The association set a medium‑term goal of reaching 10 billion dollars in exports to the Asian giant, noting that bilateral trade agreements have accelerated the jump.
Ozturk, AEA Coordinator President, said Chinese consumers are shifting from savings to spending on high‑quality products and that Turkish firms must tailor offerings to Generation Z with personalized, niche designs and localised packaging.
"Chinese consumers, once savings‑oriented, are increasingly spending on high‑quality and healthy products," Ozturk said.
He added that three product categories stand out: cosmetics featuring Turkish roses; functional foods; and premium Turkish items like olive oil, dried fruits, hazelnuts, pistachios and honey.
The CIIE will run from November 5 to 10 in Shanghai, giving Turkish exhibitors a key platform to expand their footprint in China’s 300‑million-strong consumer market, which carries European‑level purchasing power.
