Turkey expects 17 pct contraction in exports in 2009 - trade minister

"We encourage Turkish exporters to look towards Far East, Asia, Middle East and Africa markets as contraction is expected in the markets of European Union countries," Tuzmen told reporters following a meeting of the Turkish-Japanese Business Council.

Turkish exports are expected to reach $130 billion by the end of 2008 despite the difficulties, but 2009 will be a little more problematic, he also said, adding that Eximbank funds would be raised to $1 billion.

Tuzmen also said that a problem exists with the import prices of intermediate goods and sent a warning to the automotive sector, "From this point forward, we need to use home made cars."

TURKISH-JAPANESE RELATIONS

"There are no political problems between Turkey and Japan. Our two countries support each other in all global platforms," Tuzmen said.

"The bilateral trade between Turkey and Japan increased by 27 percent in the first nine months of 2008 (compared to the same term last year) and reached a value of $3.5 billion. By the end of 2008, Turkish-Japanese trade volume would be worth $4.3 billion," Tuzmen said.

"The Japanese have investments in Turkey in the automotive, construction and electronics sectors. There are important opportunities for Japanese firms in Turkey in the energy and communications sectors," he added.