Positive signs after a tough year for DFDS in Turkey

DFDS’ business in the Mediterranean grew two per cent on the same period last year.

This small growth is a positive sign given the global impact of Covid-19 in 2020. DFDS expects to continue this in 2021.

Turkey felt the pandemic effects like every other country. Lockdowns and factory closures hit trade hard.

The country’s exports to many European countries were down 27% in May 2020. Turkey started to adapt, and the wheels of the economy started to turn again. Trade reports indicated improved results the following month.

The Turkish Lira started to regain its value. Its import-export balance began returning to normal.

DFDS in the Mediterranean started to perform better as a result. Rail lines proved their importance during the pandemic when land borders were running with restrictions. DFDS was able to operate with minimum human interaction.

Looking ahead, a reduced carbon footprint for DFDS in the Mediterranean is a reality. All ferries there have had scrubbers installed, which remove pollutants from exhaust gases.

Also ongoing are efforts to ease congestion in Trieste, Italy – one of DFDS’ key destinations from Turkey.