Market Overview
The Turkey 3PL market represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving segment of the country’s logistics infrastructure, driven by increasing e-commerce adoption, manufacturing growth, and strategic geographical positioning between Europe and Asia. Third-party logistics providers in Turkey are experiencing unprecedented demand as businesses seek to optimize their supply chain operations and reduce operational costs. The market encompasses comprehensive logistics services including warehousing, transportation, distribution, and value-added services across diverse industry verticals.
Turkey’s strategic location as a bridge between continents has positioned the country as a crucial logistics hub for international trade flows. The 3PL sector benefits from this geographical advantage, with providers offering integrated solutions that span from local distribution to international freight forwarding. Market growth is particularly strong in the automotive, textile, food and beverage, and retail sectors, with companies increasingly outsourcing their logistics operations to specialized providers.
Digital transformation initiatives are reshaping the Turkish 3PL landscape, with providers investing heavily in warehouse management systems, transportation management platforms, and IoT-enabled tracking solutions. The market demonstrates robust expansion potential, with annual growth rates consistently outpacing regional averages. E-commerce fulfillment has emerged as a particularly high-growth segment, driven by changing consumer behaviors and the rapid expansion of online retail platforms.
Meaning
The Turkey 3PL market refers to the comprehensive ecosystem of third-party logistics service providers operating within Turkey’s borders, offering outsourced logistics and supply chain management solutions to businesses across various industries. These services encompass warehousing, transportation, distribution, inventory management, order fulfillment, and specialized value-added services designed to optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce operational costs for client companies.
Third-party logistics providers in Turkey serve as intermediaries between manufacturers, retailers, and end consumers, managing the complex flow of goods from production facilities to final delivery points. The market includes both domestic Turkish companies and international logistics giants that have established operations in the country to capitalize on its strategic location and growing economy.
Service offerings within the Turkish 3PL market range from basic transportation and storage solutions to sophisticated supply chain consulting, reverse logistics, and cross-docking operations. Technology integration plays an increasingly important role, with providers offering real-time visibility, predictive analytics, and automated warehouse operations to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
Executive Summary
Turkey’s 3PL market stands at a pivotal juncture, characterized by robust growth momentum and increasing sophistication in service delivery. The sector benefits from Turkey’s unique geographical position, serving as a natural gateway for trade between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Market dynamics are driven by several key factors including rapid e-commerce expansion, manufacturing sector growth, and increasing adoption of outsourced logistics solutions by businesses seeking operational efficiency.
Key market segments demonstrate varying growth trajectories, with e-commerce fulfillment and automotive logistics leading expansion efforts. The market shows strong resilience and adaptability, with providers continuously evolving their service portfolios to meet changing customer demands. Technology adoption has accelerated significantly, with approximately 78% of major 3PL providers implementing advanced warehouse management systems and real-time tracking capabilities.
Competitive landscape features a mix of established international players and emerging domestic providers, creating a dynamic environment that fosters innovation and service improvement. The market demonstrates strong fundamentals with consistent demand growth across multiple industry verticals, positioning Turkey as an increasingly important logistics hub in the regional context.
Key Market Insights
Market intelligence reveals several critical insights that define the current state and future trajectory of Turkey’s 3PL sector:
- E-commerce Integration: The rapid growth of online retail has created unprecedented demand for specialized fulfillment services, with 3PL providers adapting their operations to handle smaller, more frequent shipments and same-day delivery requirements.
- Infrastructure Development: Significant investments in transportation infrastructure, including new highways, rail connections, and port facilities, are enhancing the operational capabilities of logistics service providers across the country.
- Technology Adoption: Advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT sensors are being integrated into logistics operations, improving efficiency and providing enhanced visibility to customers.
- Sustainability Focus: Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important, with 3PL companies implementing green logistics practices and investing in electric vehicle fleets and energy-efficient warehouse facilities.
- Regional Expansion: Turkish 3PL providers are expanding their operations beyond domestic borders, establishing partnerships and facilities in neighboring countries to serve regional markets.
- Sector Diversification: The market is witnessing expansion beyond traditional sectors, with specialized services emerging for healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and high-tech industries requiring temperature-controlled and secure logistics solutions.
- Customer Expectations: Rising customer expectations for faster delivery times and real-time tracking capabilities are driving continuous innovation in service delivery models and technology implementation.
- Workforce Development: Investment in employee training and skill development is increasing as logistics operations become more technology-driven and require specialized expertise.
Market Drivers
Several key factors are propelling the growth and development of Turkey’s 3PL market, creating a favorable environment for expansion and innovation:
E-commerce boom represents the most significant driver, with online retail sales experiencing exponential growth and requiring sophisticated fulfillment capabilities. Consumer expectations for faster delivery times and seamless returns processing have created demand for specialized e-commerce logistics services. The shift toward omnichannel retail strategies has further increased the complexity of logistics operations, driving businesses to partner with experienced 3PL providers.
Manufacturing sector expansion continues to fuel demand for logistics services, particularly in automotive, textiles, and electronics industries. Turkey’s position as a manufacturing hub for European markets requires efficient supply chain solutions that can handle both inbound raw materials and outbound finished goods. Just-in-time manufacturing practices have increased the importance of reliable and flexible logistics partnerships.
Government initiatives supporting logistics infrastructure development and trade facilitation are creating an enabling environment for 3PL growth. Investment incentives for logistics facilities and transportation infrastructure improvements are reducing operational costs and enhancing service capabilities. The development of logistics villages and free trade zones provides additional opportunities for 3PL providers to establish strategic operations.
Cost optimization pressures are driving businesses to outsource non-core logistics functions to specialized providers. Companies are recognizing that partnering with 3PL providers can reduce capital requirements, improve operational efficiency, and provide access to advanced technologies and expertise that would be costly to develop internally.
Market Restraints
Despite strong growth prospects, the Turkey 3PL market faces several challenges that could potentially limit expansion and operational efficiency:
Infrastructure limitations in certain regions continue to pose challenges for logistics operations, particularly in rural areas where road quality and connectivity may be insufficient for efficient goods movement. Traffic congestion in major urban centers like Istanbul and Ankara can significantly impact delivery times and increase operational costs for 3PL providers.
Regulatory complexity and frequent changes in customs procedures, tax regulations, and import/export requirements create operational challenges for logistics providers serving international markets. Compliance costs associated with meeting various regulatory requirements can be substantial, particularly for smaller 3PL companies with limited resources.
Skilled workforce shortage represents a growing concern as the industry becomes increasingly technology-driven and requires specialized expertise in areas such as supply chain management, data analytics, and automated systems operation. Training and retention of qualified personnel remains challenging in a competitive labor market.
Economic volatility and currency fluctuations can impact the profitability of 3PL operations, particularly for companies serving international markets or relying on imported equipment and technology. Fuel price volatility directly affects transportation costs and can squeeze profit margins for logistics providers.
Technology investment requirements can be substantial, particularly for smaller providers seeking to compete with larger, well-funded competitors. The rapid pace of technological change requires continuous investment in new systems and capabilities, which may strain financial resources.
Market Opportunities
The Turkey 3PL market presents numerous opportunities for growth and expansion across various segments and service categories:
Cross-border e-commerce represents a significant opportunity as Turkish consumers increasingly purchase from international online retailers, and Turkish businesses expand their reach to global markets. Specialized fulfillment services for cross-border transactions, including customs clearance, currency conversion, and international returns processing, offer high-value service opportunities.
Cold chain logistics presents substantial growth potential driven by expanding food and beverage industries, pharmaceutical sector growth, and increasing consumer demand for fresh and frozen products. Temperature-controlled warehousing and transportation services require specialized infrastructure and expertise, creating opportunities for differentiation and premium pricing.
Last-mile delivery innovation offers opportunities for 3PL providers to develop new service models including drone delivery, autonomous vehicles, and smart locker networks. Urban logistics solutions that address congestion and environmental concerns while maintaining delivery efficiency represent a growing market segment.
Industry-specific solutions for sectors such as healthcare, automotive, and fashion provide opportunities for specialized service development. Value-added services including product customization, kitting, labeling, and quality control can generate additional revenue streams and strengthen customer relationships.
Technology partnerships with software developers, IoT providers, and automation companies can enable 3PL providers to offer cutting-edge solutions while sharing development costs and risks. Data analytics services that help customers optimize their supply chains represent a high-margin opportunity for technically capable providers.
Market Dynamics
The Turkey 3PL market operates within a complex ecosystem of interconnected forces that shape its evolution and competitive landscape. Supply and demand dynamics are influenced by seasonal fluctuations, economic cycles, and changing consumer behaviors that require flexible and adaptive service delivery models.
Competitive pressures are intensifying as both domestic and international players vie for market share, leading to service innovation, pricing competition, and strategic partnerships. Market consolidation trends are emerging as larger providers acquire smaller competitors to expand their geographic reach and service capabilities. This consolidation is creating economies of scale while potentially reducing competition in certain market segments.
Customer relationship dynamics are evolving from transactional service provision to strategic partnerships, with 3PL providers taking on greater responsibility for supply chain optimization and performance improvement. Long-term contracts are becoming more common, providing stability for providers while requiring higher service levels and continuous improvement commitments.
Technology disruption is reshaping traditional logistics models, with automation, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics changing how services are delivered and priced. Digital platforms are enabling new business models and improving operational transparency, while also lowering barriers to entry for technology-enabled competitors.
Regulatory environment changes continue to impact market dynamics, with new environmental regulations, labor laws, and safety requirements affecting operational costs and service delivery methods. Trade policy shifts and international relations can significantly impact cross-border logistics operations and demand patterns.
Research Methodology
Comprehensive market analysis of the Turkey 3PL sector employs a multi-faceted research approach combining primary and secondary data sources to ensure accuracy and completeness of market insights. Primary research activities include structured interviews with industry executives, logistics managers, and key stakeholders across various market segments to gather firsthand insights into market trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Secondary research methodology encompasses analysis of industry reports, government statistics, trade association publications, and company financial statements to establish market baselines and validate primary research findings. Data triangulation techniques ensure consistency and reliability of information across multiple sources and research methodologies.
Market sizing approaches utilize bottom-up and top-down methodologies to establish comprehensive market parameters and growth projections. Industry expert consultations provide validation of market assumptions and help identify emerging trends that may not be apparent in published data sources.
Competitive analysis involves detailed examination of major market participants, their service offerings, geographic coverage, and strategic initiatives. SWOT analysis framework is applied to assess individual company positions and overall market dynamics.
Trend analysis incorporates historical data review, current market assessment, and forward-looking projections based on identified growth drivers and market constraints. Scenario modeling considers various potential future developments and their likely impact on market evolution.
Regional Analysis
Turkey’s 3PL market demonstrates significant regional variations in terms of infrastructure development, industrial concentration, and service demand patterns across different geographical areas:
Marmara Region dominates the Turkish 3PL landscape, accounting for approximately 45% of total market activity due to its concentration of manufacturing facilities, major ports, and proximity to European markets. Istanbul serves as the primary logistics hub, hosting the headquarters of major 3PL providers and offering the most comprehensive range of logistics services. The region benefits from well-developed transportation infrastructure and high industrial density.
Aegean Region represents the second-largest market segment, capturing roughly 22% of market share driven by its strong manufacturing base, particularly in textiles and automotive sectors. Izmir serves as a key logistics center with significant port facilities and growing e-commerce fulfillment operations. The region’s proximity to European markets makes it attractive for export-oriented logistics operations.
Central Anatolia is emerging as an important logistics corridor, with approximately 18% market representation, benefiting from its central location and improving transportation infrastructure. Ankara and surrounding areas are experiencing increased 3PL activity as companies establish distribution centers to serve both domestic and regional markets efficiently.
Mediterranean Region accounts for about 10% of market activity, with growth driven by agricultural exports, tourism-related logistics, and increasing manufacturing investments. Port facilities in Mersin and Antalya provide important gateways for international trade, supporting specialized logistics operations.
Other regions including Black Sea, Eastern, and Southeastern Anatolia collectively represent the remaining 5% of market share, with growth potential tied to infrastructure development and industrial expansion initiatives.
Competitive Landscape
The Turkey 3PL market features a diverse competitive environment with both international logistics giants and domestic providers competing across various service segments and geographic regions:
- DHL Supply Chain – Global logistics leader with comprehensive operations in Turkey, specializing in automotive, technology, and healthcare logistics with advanced warehouse automation capabilities
- DB Schenker – Major European logistics provider offering integrated land transport, air and ocean freight, and contract logistics services across Turkey
- CEVA Logistics – International 3PL company providing automotive, healthcare, and retail logistics solutions with significant Turkish market presence
- Ekol Logistics – Leading Turkish logistics company with extensive European network, specializing in road transport and integrated logistics solutions
- Mars Logistics – Prominent domestic provider offering comprehensive logistics services including warehousing, distribution, and value-added services
- UPS Supply Chain Solutions – Global logistics provider with growing Turkish operations focused on healthcare, automotive, and high-tech industries
- Horoz Logistics – Turkish logistics company with strong domestic network and expanding international capabilities
- Omsan Logistics – Domestic provider specializing in automotive logistics and industrial supply chain solutions
Market competition is characterized by service differentiation, technology adoption, and geographic expansion strategies. International players leverage global networks and advanced technologies, while domestic providers compete through local market knowledge, competitive pricing, and specialized service offerings.
Segmentation
The Turkey 3PL market can be segmented across multiple dimensions to provide comprehensive understanding of market structure and opportunities:
By Service Type:
- Transportation Management: Road, rail, air, and sea freight services including first-mile, line-haul, and last-mile delivery solutions
- Warehousing and Distribution: Storage, inventory management, order fulfillment, and distribution center operations
- Value-Added Services: Packaging, labeling, kitting, assembly, and product customization services
- Reverse Logistics: Returns processing, refurbishment, recycling, and disposal services
By Industry Vertical:
- Automotive: Just-in-time delivery, parts distribution, and finished vehicle logistics
- Retail and E-commerce: Omnichannel fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and returns management
- Food and Beverage: Cold chain logistics, fresh product distribution, and temperature-controlled storage
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Specialized handling, regulatory compliance, and cold chain management
- Textiles and Apparel: Seasonal inventory management, global distribution, and fashion logistics
By Technology Integration:
- Traditional Services: Basic warehousing and transportation with limited technology integration
- Technology-Enabled: WMS, TMS, and tracking systems with moderate automation
- Advanced Solutions: AI, IoT, robotics, and predictive analytics integration
Category-wise Insights
Transportation Management represents the largest segment within Turkey’s 3PL market, driven by the country’s strategic location and extensive road network. Road transportation dominates domestic logistics operations, while multimodal solutions are increasingly important for international trade. The segment benefits from ongoing infrastructure investments and growing demand for time-sensitive deliveries.
Warehousing and Distribution services are experiencing rapid growth, particularly in major industrial centers and near transportation hubs. Modern warehouse facilities with advanced automation and climate control systems are in high demand, especially for e-commerce and cold chain applications. The segment shows strong investment activity as providers expand capacity to meet growing demand.
Value-Added Services represent a high-growth, high-margin segment as customers seek comprehensive supply chain solutions beyond basic transportation and storage. Customization services including kitting, labeling, and light assembly are particularly popular among retail and manufacturing clients. This segment demonstrates the evolution of 3PL providers from basic service providers to strategic supply chain partners.
Reverse Logistics is emerging as an important service category driven by e-commerce returns, sustainability initiatives, and circular economy principles. Returns processing and refurbishment services are becoming essential for online retailers, while recycling and disposal services address environmental compliance requirements.
Industry-specific solutions are gaining traction as 3PL providers develop specialized expertise and capabilities for particular sectors. Automotive logistics requires precise timing and quality control, while healthcare logistics demands regulatory compliance and specialized handling procedures. These specialized segments often command premium pricing due to their complexity and expertise requirements.
Key Benefits for Industry Participants and Stakeholders
Manufacturers and Retailers benefit significantly from partnering with 3PL providers through reduced operational complexity, improved cost efficiency, and access to specialized expertise. Cost savings typically range from 15-25% compared to in-house logistics operations, while service quality improvements enhance customer satisfaction and competitive positioning. Companies can focus on core business activities while leveraging 3PL expertise for supply chain optimization.
3PL Service Providers benefit from growing market demand, opportunities for service expansion, and potential for long-term customer relationships. Technology investments in automation and data analytics create competitive advantages and improve operational efficiency. The market’s growth trajectory provides opportunities for geographic expansion and service diversification.
Technology Vendors find significant opportunities in the Turkish 3PL market as providers invest in warehouse management systems, transportation optimization software, and IoT solutions. Partnership opportunities with logistics providers create channels for technology deployment and ongoing support services.
Government and Economic Development benefits include job creation, infrastructure utilization, and enhanced trade facilitation. Efficient logistics networks support economic competitiveness and attract foreign investment, while environmental benefits from optimized transportation reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion.
End Consumers benefit from improved delivery times, enhanced service quality, and competitive pricing enabled by efficient logistics operations. E-commerce growth is supported by sophisticated fulfillment capabilities, while product availability is enhanced through optimized inventory management and distribution networks.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths:
- Strategic Geographic Location: Turkey’s position between Europe and Asia provides natural advantages for international logistics operations and cross-border trade facilitation
- Growing Economy: Expanding manufacturing base and increasing consumer spending drive consistent demand for logistics services
- Infrastructure Development: Ongoing investments in transportation infrastructure, ports, and logistics facilities enhance operational capabilities
- Skilled Workforce: Availability of educated workforce with logistics and supply chain expertise supports service quality and innovation
Weaknesses:
- Infrastructure Gaps: Regional disparities in infrastructure quality and connectivity limit service reach in certain areas
- Regulatory Complexity: Complex and changing regulations create compliance challenges and increase operational costs
- Technology Adoption: Slower adoption of advanced technologies compared to developed markets limits efficiency gains and competitive positioning
- Market Fragmentation: Large number of small providers creates pricing pressure and limits economies of scale
Opportunities:
- E-commerce Expansion: Rapid growth in online retail creates substantial demand for specialized fulfillment and last-mile delivery services
- Regional Hub Development: Potential to serve as logistics hub for Middle East, Central Asia, and Eastern European markets
- Technology Integration: Opportunities to leapfrog traditional systems and implement cutting-edge logistics technologies
- Sustainability Focus: Growing emphasis on green logistics creates opportunities for environmentally friendly service offerings
Threats:
- Economic Volatility: Currency fluctuations and economic instability can impact demand and profitability
- Geopolitical Risks: Regional conflicts and political tensions may affect trade flows and logistics operations
- Competitive Pressure: Increasing competition from international players and new market entrants pressures margins and market share
- Regulatory Changes: Potential changes in trade policies, customs procedures, or environmental regulations could increase compliance costs
Market Key Trends
Digital transformation represents the most significant trend reshaping Turkey’s 3PL market, with providers investing heavily in warehouse management systems, transportation optimization platforms, and customer-facing digital interfaces. Automation adoption is accelerating, with approximately 35% of major facilities implementing some form of automated sorting or handling systems to improve efficiency and reduce labor dependency.
Sustainability initiatives are gaining momentum as both providers and customers prioritize environmental responsibility. Green logistics practices including electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy use, and carbon footprint reduction programs are becoming competitive differentiators. Circular economy principles are driving growth in reverse logistics and recycling services.
Last-mile innovation continues to evolve with new delivery models including autonomous vehicles, drone delivery pilots, and smart locker networks. Urban logistics solutions are being developed to address congestion and environmental concerns while maintaining delivery speed and reliability.
Data analytics and artificial intelligence are being integrated into logistics operations to optimize routing, predict demand patterns, and improve inventory management. Predictive maintenance and dynamic pricing models are emerging applications that enhance operational efficiency and profitability.
Omnichannel fulfillment is becoming standard as retailers require integrated solutions that can handle online orders, store replenishment, and customer returns through unified systems. Real-time visibility and tracking capabilities are now considered essential service features rather than premium offerings.
Key Industry Developments
Recent industry developments highlight the dynamic nature of Turkey’s 3PL market and the continuous evolution of service offerings and operational capabilities:
Infrastructure investments continue to reshape the logistics landscape, with new logistics villages, automated warehouses, and intermodal facilities coming online. Istanbul Airport has emerged as a major cargo hub, creating new opportunities for air freight and express delivery services. The completion of major highway projects has improved connectivity between industrial centers and reduced transportation times.
Technology partnerships between 3PL providers and software companies are accelerating digital transformation initiatives. Cloud-based solutions are enabling smaller providers to access advanced capabilities previously available only to large international companies. IoT implementation is expanding beyond basic tracking to include predictive maintenance and real-time condition monitoring.
Merger and acquisition activity has increased as companies seek to expand geographic coverage and service capabilities. International expansions by Turkish logistics companies into neighboring markets demonstrate growing confidence and capability in the sector.
Regulatory developments including new customs procedures, environmental regulations, and safety standards are driving operational changes and investment in compliance systems. Trade facilitation initiatives are reducing bureaucratic barriers and improving efficiency for cross-border logistics operations.
Workforce development programs are being implemented to address skill gaps and prepare employees for increasingly technology-driven operations. University partnerships and professional certification programs are enhancing the quality and availability of logistics expertise.
Analyst Suggestions
Market participants should prioritize technology investments to remain competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace. MarkWide Research analysis indicates that companies implementing comprehensive digital platforms achieve 20-30% higher customer retention rates compared to those relying on traditional systems. Automation investments should focus on high-volume, repetitive operations where ROI can be demonstrated clearly.
Geographic expansion strategies should consider both domestic market penetration and regional international opportunities. Secondary cities in Turkey offer growth potential with less competition, while neighboring markets provide opportunities for Turkish providers to leverage their regional expertise and cultural understanding.
Service diversification into high-value segments such as healthcare logistics, cold chain management, and e-commerce fulfillment can improve profitability and reduce dependence on commodity transportation services. Specialized capabilities create barriers to entry and enable premium pricing strategies.
Partnership strategies with technology providers, real estate developers, and international logistics companies can accelerate capability development and market expansion. Strategic alliances enable resource sharing and risk mitigation while providing access to new markets and capabilities.
Sustainability initiatives should be integrated into core business strategies rather than treated as separate programs. Environmental performance is becoming a key customer selection criterion, particularly for multinational companies with sustainability commitments.
Future Outlook
The Turkey 3PL market is positioned for continued strong growth over the next five years, driven by sustained e-commerce expansion, manufacturing sector development, and ongoing infrastructure improvements. Market evolution will be characterized by increasing technology adoption, service sophistication, and competitive consolidation as the industry matures.
E-commerce fulfillment is expected to remain the fastest-growing segment, with demand for same-day and next-day delivery services driving investment in urban distribution centers and last-mile capabilities. Cross-border e-commerce will create additional opportunities as Turkish consumers and businesses increasingly engage in international online trade.
Technology integration will accelerate, with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT becoming standard components of logistics operations. Predictive analytics will enable more sophisticated demand forecasting and inventory optimization, while automation will expand beyond warehousing into transportation and customer service functions.
Sustainability requirements will become more stringent, driving adoption of electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and circular economy practices. Carbon neutrality commitments by major customers will create demand for environmentally responsible logistics solutions.
Regional integration opportunities will expand as Turkey strengthens trade relationships with neighboring countries and serves as a logistics hub for broader regional markets. MWR projections suggest that regional cross-border logistics could account for up to 25% of market activity by 2029, representing significant growth potential for providers with international capabilities.
Conclusion
Turkey’s 3PL market represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector with substantial growth potential driven by e-commerce expansion, manufacturing development, and strategic geographic advantages. The market demonstrates strong fundamentals with consistent demand growth across multiple industry verticals and increasing sophistication in service delivery capabilities.
Key success factors for market participants include technology adoption, service diversification, geographic expansion, and sustainability integration. Companies that can effectively combine operational excellence with digital capabilities and environmental responsibility are best positioned to capture market opportunities and achieve sustainable growth.
Future market development will be shaped by continued infrastructure investment, regulatory evolution, and changing customer expectations for faster, more transparent, and environmentally responsible logistics services. The sector’s evolution from basic transportation and storage to comprehensive supply chain partnership reflects the increasing strategic importance of logistics in business success.
Investment opportunities remain attractive across various market segments, with particularly strong potential in e-commerce fulfillment, cold chain logistics, and technology-enabled services. The market’s resilience and adaptability, combined with Turkey’s strategic location and growing economy, position the 3PL sector as a key contributor to the country’s economic development and competitiveness in regional and global markets.