In this episode of Invest in Türkiye Talks, we explore the century-long journey of Organik Kimya—one of Türkiye's leading chemical companies—through the insights of its co-CEO Stefano Kaslowski. With a strong legacy and a forward-looking vision, Kaslowski shares how the company has navigated global industrial shifts, embraced sustainability, and positioned itself as a key player in international markets.
Founded in 1924 by Kaslowski's grandfather, Organik Kimya began as a trading business before evolving into a major manufacturer of chemical products in 1965. Today, the company stands as a testament to Türkiye's industrial resilience and innovation. Under Kaslowski's leadership, Organik Kimya has expanded beyond Türkiye, establishing production sites in Rotterdam and setting its sights on the US market.
Beyond his role at Organik Kimya, Kaslowski serves as President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Türkiye—an institution dating back to 1885. This historic trade relationship underscores the deep economic ties between the two countries. Italian businesses have played a vital role in Türkiye's industrial ecosystem, contributing to sectors such as automotive, finance, and pharmaceuticals. The partnership between the two countries fosters not only commerce but also technology transfer, investment opportunities, and joint ventures.
Türkiye's strategic location—at the nexus of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East—positions it as a crucial hub for international trade. Kaslowski highlights the country's well-developed logistics infrastructure, including efficient maritime transport between Türkiye and Italy, enabling the swift movement of goods within 48 hours. With a dynamic workforce and a pro-business regulatory environment, Türkiye offers immense potential for international investors, particularly in sectors requiring high technical expertise.
As the global chemical industry faces mounting pressure to adopt greener practices, Organik Kimya is actively investing in sustainable solutions. The company has significantly reduced its carbon footprint through energy-efficient production processes and the adoption of renewable energy. With sustainability now a critical factor for competitiveness, Organik Kimya is pioneering research into alternative raw materials and leveraging artificial intelligence to accelerate innovation in polymer development.
Türkiye's alignment with the European Green Deal presents both challenges and opportunities. Kaslowski views this transition as a key driver of industrial transformation, encouraging Turkish businesses to integrate sustainability into their core operations. Companies that embrace environmentally responsible strategies are expected to gain a stronger foothold in the European market and set new benchmarks for sustainable manufacturing.
As Türkiye continues to evolve into a global industrial powerhouse, leaders like Stefano Kaslowski are shaping the future through innovation, sustainability, and strategic expansion. Organik Kimya's commitment to research, digital transformation, and sustainability positions it as a model for the next generation of Turkish enterprises.