Determination of the importance levels of problems encountered in marble exports through multi-criteria decision-making method: The case of Afyonkarahisar

In this thesis, the relationship between Türkiye's foreign trade system and the marble sector has been examined through the case of Afyonkarahisar. It has been revealed that, within the process of global economic transformation, exports have become a strategic tool for development, while the marble sector- holding a significant share in natural stone exports- has reached a remarkable position both regionally and nationally. The main purpose of the study has been to identify the problems encountered in marble exports and to analyze their importance levels by using the FUCOM method. During the research process, a field study supported by literature review and semi-structured interviews has been conducted. According to the findings, inflation, price- cost structure, and product quality have been identified as the most critical problems faced by the sector. Factors such as production capacity, financial structure, efficiency, geopolitical risks, and technology have been evaluated at relatively lower priority levels. The analysis results have shown that firms have experienced serious difficulties due to economic instability and cost pressures, and that strategic planning has been concentrated on these areas. Accordingly, recommendations have been developed, including policies supporting price stability, investments in digitalization, compliance with quality standards, and strengthening access to alternative financing mechanisms. As a result, prioritization carried out through the FUCOM method has contributed to sectoral strategy development processes, while the analysis conducted in Afyonkarahisar has reinforced the local development perspective. Keywords: Export, Marble Sector, Afyonkarahisar, FUCOM, Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM)