Beko Emphasizes the Need for Unified Climate, Trade, and Finance Policies at COP31
At the recently concluded COP31, Beko made a strong case for the necessity of integrating climate, trade, and industrial policies. The pivotal discussion, led by Fatih Özkadı, Chief Sustainability, Quality, and Customer Care Officer, and Barış Alparslan, Chief Financial Officer, highlighted how harmonious policy-making can enhance industrial competitiveness instead of undermining it.
Beko's argument centers around the premise that disjointed policies could lead to increased costs and complications across global supply chains. With new climate measures being introduced alongside specific industrial policies and trade defense mechanisms, there’s a risk that the intentions may not align. This misalignment could influence investment decisions and sourcing strategies negatively, particularly for manufacturers who are active in multiple countries, such as Beko, which operates in both Türkiye and the EU.
One significant point of discussion was the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which went into effect at the start of 2026. This mechanism is set to expand to nearly 180 products like steel and aluminum, placing home appliance manufacturers like Beko directly in the line of impact. Fatih Özkadı stressed that for a fair playing field, climate pricing and industrial measures must be coordinated. Manufacturers who navigate multiple regulatory landscapes need practical solutions that consider carbon prices already addressed in diverse locations.
As Beko manufactures essential home appliances in Türkiye and several EU nations, these regulatory standards affect its operations on both sides. The integration of Turkish and European industries has been a long-standing process, characterizing the practice of investing and job creation across borders. Understanding these interdependencies is vital in framing effective policies.
Investment in green technology and sustainable practices is essential for the transition toward lower-carbon manufacturing methods. Beko underlined that achieving these goals requires access to sufficient climate finance. Projects that yield measurable outcomes need funding solutions that align with ambitious climate agendas. The ongoing COP31 is particularly relevant following the introduction of the Baku to Belém Roadmap, which aims to boost climate finances for developing countries by $1.3 trillion annually by 2035.
In light of this, Beko has already taken steps towards sustainability, having signed its first sustainability-linked loan amounting to €200 million earlier last year. The loan secured from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reflects Beko's commitment to implementing practices that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also improve workforce diversity.
During COP31, Beko participated in a series of influential panels. Özkadı began with a discussion on "Building Competitive Green Value Chains" alongside key figures in trade and industry, stressing the collaborative approach needed for integrated policies. Additionally, he moderated discussions focused on aligning climate, trade, and industrial strategies, emphasizing the need to evaluate each product's potential under the CBAM framework, particularly as it relates to competitiveness and a cleaner production trajectory.
On November 13, Alparslan contributed to discussions on decarbonization financing. He highlighted the need for long-term investment in climate initiatives, noting that viable projects require financial backing that aligns with their long-term economic trajectories. Beko’s engagement at COP31, alongside Koç Holding, demonstrates a proactive stance towards addressing climate concerns while advocating for the manufacturing sector’s sustainability.
Beko stands as a considerable player in the home appliance market, recognized as the largest white goods company in Europe, with a market share based on volume production. Its operational footprint extends to over 55 countries and employs around 45,000 individuals, contributing significantly to the global economy.
Reflecting on its performance, Beko has achieved the highest score in the SP Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment for the household durables sector for seven consecutive years, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
By fostering synergies between climate, trade, and finance policies, Beko aims to not only tackle challenges posed by carbon pricing but also to revolutionize the manufacturing landscape towards a more sustainable future.
Beko's argument centers around the premise that disjointed policies could lead to increased costs and complications across global supply chains. With new climate measures being introduced alongside specific industrial policies and trade defense mechanisms, there’s a risk that the intentions may not align. This misalignment could influence investment decisions and sourcing strategies negatively, particularly for manufacturers who are active in multiple countries, such as Beko, which operates in both Türkiye and the EU.
One significant point of discussion was the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which went into effect at the start of 2026. This mechanism is set to expand to nearly 180 products like steel and aluminum, placing home appliance manufacturers like Beko directly in the line of impact. Fatih Özkadı stressed that for a fair playing field, climate pricing and industrial measures must be coordinated. Manufacturers who navigate multiple regulatory landscapes need practical solutions that consider carbon prices already addressed in diverse locations.
As Beko manufactures essential home appliances in Türkiye and several EU nations, these regulatory standards affect its operations on both sides. The integration of Turkish and European industries has been a long-standing process, characterizing the practice of investing and job creation across borders. Understanding these interdependencies is vital in framing effective policies.
Investment in green technology and sustainable practices is essential for the transition toward lower-carbon manufacturing methods. Beko underlined that achieving these goals requires access to sufficient climate finance. Projects that yield measurable outcomes need funding solutions that align with ambitious climate agendas. The ongoing COP31 is particularly relevant following the introduction of the Baku to Belém Roadmap, which aims to boost climate finances for developing countries by $1.3 trillion annually by 2035.
In light of this, Beko has already taken steps towards sustainability, having signed its first sustainability-linked loan amounting to €200 million earlier last year. The loan secured from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reflects Beko's commitment to implementing practices that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also improve workforce diversity.
During COP31, Beko participated in a series of influential panels. Özkadı began with a discussion on "Building Competitive Green Value Chains" alongside key figures in trade and industry, stressing the collaborative approach needed for integrated policies. Additionally, he moderated discussions focused on aligning climate, trade, and industrial strategies, emphasizing the need to evaluate each product's potential under the CBAM framework, particularly as it relates to competitiveness and a cleaner production trajectory.
On November 13, Alparslan contributed to discussions on decarbonization financing. He highlighted the need for long-term investment in climate initiatives, noting that viable projects require financial backing that aligns with their long-term economic trajectories. Beko’s engagement at COP31, alongside Koç Holding, demonstrates a proactive stance towards addressing climate concerns while advocating for the manufacturing sector’s sustainability.
Beko stands as a considerable player in the home appliance market, recognized as the largest white goods company in Europe, with a market share based on volume production. Its operational footprint extends to over 55 countries and employs around 45,000 individuals, contributing significantly to the global economy.
Reflecting on its performance, Beko has achieved the highest score in the SP Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment for the household durables sector for seven consecutive years, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
By fostering synergies between climate, trade, and finance policies, Beko aims to not only tackle challenges posed by carbon pricing but also to revolutionize the manufacturing landscape towards a more sustainable future.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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