FUTURE PERSPECTIVES IN IRON AND STEEL SECTOR IN KARABUK

Abstract

Karabuk has a historical and significant impact and importance in Turkish iron and steel sector. The aim of this research is to investigate the future perspectives of steel producing companies in Karabuk. Kardemir Inc. as the first integrated iron and steel factory of the country and (30) rolling mills operating in Karabuk compose the universe of this research. A descriptive research model was used in the study. For this purpose, data that would be the basis for (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) SWOT analysis were obtained through interviews. Datas obtained were analyzed with descriptive analysis method. As a result of the research, it may be expressed that the enterprises in Karabuk have an extensive iron and steel culture, achieved product diversity success were able to gain competitive advantage through product differentiation in exports. However high energy, raw material and logistics costs, fluctuations in foreign exchange and raw material prices, terror and political instability in neighboring countries are considered to negatively affect the rapid growth of the sector in the future. (C) 2017 Published by Future Academy www. FutureAcademy.org.uk