Turkey has taken another significant step in reducing its energy dependence. In October 2024, the country’s crude oil imports fell by 26.3%. Increased oil production from Gabar Mountain has boosted daily production to 125,000 barrels. These developments are contributing significantly to both the national economy and the regional development of Sirnak. Policies and projects aimed at decreasing Turkey’s reliance on foreign energy sources have started yielding tangible results. In October 2024, crude oil imports dropped by approximately 26.3% compared to the same period in the previous year, falling to 2.18 million tons.
Notable Drop in Crude Oil Imports
According to data from the Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK), Turkey’s total imports of crude oil and petroleum products fell by 7.82% in October 2024, reaching 3.912 million tons. The majority of this decline came from crude oil imports, which dropped by 26.3% year-on-year to 2.18 million tons.
Gabar Mountain Oil Production Boosts the Economy
Gabar Mountain, with an estimated reserve of 1 billion barrels, plays a critical role in Turkey’s energy independence goals. The region ended 2024 with a daily production of 70,000 barrels, which rose to 73,000 barrels in the first week of the new year. This increase contributes over $2 billion annually. With production from Gabar, Turkey’s total daily crude oil output reached 125,000 barrels.
Economist Mesut Balta emphasized the importance of Gabar’s production, noting its significant contributions to both Turkey’s economy and the regional development of Sirnak. Balta highlighted that Sirnak is on its way to becoming a “petroleum city” due to its growing oil production momentum.
Supporting Youth Employment
Oil production in Gabar Mountain is providing new opportunities for the economy of Sirnak. Balta noted that the petroleum sector has become a source of hope for the local population, especially in combating youth unemployment. He emphasized the importance of planning that reduces migration, supports industrialization, and fosters regional growth.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök