The trade relationship between the United States and Turkmenistan is an interesting one, with a diverse range of products exchanged between these two nations. Let’s explore the top 10 most traded items, their significance, and the trends shaping this bilateral trade.
1. Poultry Meat
Poultry meat stands out as the leading export from the United States to Turkmenistan. In 2024, the US exported poultry meat and products worth $31.82 million to Turkmenistan, with a total volume of 28,046 metric tons. This represents a significant increase from previous years, showing a 349% growth over the past decade.
The popularity of American poultry in Turkmenistan can be attributed to its high quality and competitive pricing. This trade helps support American farmers and provides Turkmenistan with a reliable source of protein for its population.
2. Nitrogenous Fertilizers
Turkmenistan’s primary export to the United States is nitrogenous fertilizers. In 2022, Turkmenistan exported $33 million worth of these fertilizers to the US. This trade highlights Turkmenistan’s strong chemical industry and the US agricultural sector’s demand for quality fertilizers.
Nitrogenous fertilizers are crucial for enhancing crop yields, making this trade vital for American farmers looking to improve their productivity.
3. Refined Petroleum
Another significant export from Turkmenistan to the United States is refined petroleum. In 2022, this trade was valued at $10.7 million. Turkmenistan, known for its vast natural gas reserves, also has a developing oil refining industry.
The export of refined petroleum products to the US showcases Turkmenistan’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond raw material exports.
4. Machinery and Equipment
The United States exports various types of machinery and equipment to Turkmenistan. In 2023, these exports were valued at $9.49 million. This category includes nuclear reactors, boilers, and other industrial machinery.
This trade reflects Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its industries and infrastructure, relying on American technology and expertise.
5. Chemical Products
Chemical products form a significant part of the trade between these two countries. The US exported $8.60 million worth of miscellaneous chemical products to Turkmenistan in 2023.
These chemicals likely support various industries in Turkmenistan, from agriculture to manufacturing, highlighting the diverse needs of Turkmenistan’s developing economy.
6. Inorganic Chemicals
Inorganic chemicals, including precious metal compounds and isotopes, are traded in both directions. The US exported $7.63 million worth of these products to Turkmenistan in 2023, while also importing some from Turkmenistan.
This two-way trade in chemicals underscores the complementary nature of the two countries’ chemical industries.
7. Vegetable Saps
An interesting export from Turkmenistan to the United States is vegetable saps. In 2022, this trade was valued at $3.64 million. These plant extracts are often used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
The export of vegetable saps represents Turkmenistan’s efforts to capitalize on its natural resources beyond fossil fuels.
8. Optical and Medical Apparatus
The United States exports optical, photographic, technical, and medical apparatus to Turkmenistan. In 2023, these exports were valued at $3.07 million.
This trade supports the development of Turkmenistan’s healthcare and technical sectors, providing advanced equipment for various applications.
9. Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Electrical and electronic equipment is another category of products traded between the two countries. The US exported $2.32 million worth of these goods to Turkmenistan in 2023.
This trade helps Turkmenistan access modern technology and supports its efforts to develop its telecommunications and electronics sectors.
10. Aircraft and Spacecraft
Rounding out our top 10 list is the trade in aircraft and spacecraft parts. The US exported $1.29 million worth of these products to Turkmenistan in 2023.
While not as large in value as some other categories, this trade is significant as it supports Turkmenistan’s aviation industry and potentially its space ambitions.