The role of regional sectoral clusters for economic competitiveness in Turkey

This research aimed to determine the relationship between economic competitiveness and sectoral clusters according to the criterion of Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS) level 3 regions in Turkey by using NACE Rev. 2 (single-digit code). In this context, the revenue values were used to determine the competitive sector in the period between 2010 to 2016 according to NACE Rev. 2 NUTS level 3 regions in Turkey. Therefore, the shift-share analysis was used to determine the competitive sectors with an evolutionary approach. Also, depending on the number of enterprises, the three-star method is used to identify the same level and sectoral scope clusters. The author established this data set of the NUTS level 3 regions in Turkey by studying at the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT). Besides, the relevant analyzes were produced by the author at TURKSTAT. This data set includes the whole number of results produced between 2009 and 2019 based on administrative records initially released in 2018 by TURKSTAT. Therefore, this study is the first study conducted on the competitiveness and clusters at the provincial level in Turkey. It is the first study using full census results according to administrative records. In this study, the results have been transferred to the information system on ArcGIS software. By transferring the information, the relation between clusters and competitiveness was examined separately for over 16 sectors in the regions of Turkey. Through the ArcGIS program, a matrix was used to explain these relationships, the maps prepared within the scope of 16 sectors under six main headings in four groups. An index developed to explain the clustering and competitive relationship dimension (IB value) that examines all sectors together through the matrix created for 16 sectors. The research questions were answered successfully by using the IB value. As a result, a general thesis known as "the competitiveness supports the clusters" is not showing similar effects in all sectors in Turkey within the scope of NACE Rev. 2. The role of clusters in competitiveness varies according to sector types. The competitiveness is limited regionally, and the clusters particularly evolved in focal points of different regions in Turkey. The regional distribution on the sectoral clusters that have not transformed to competitiveness indicates that the leading condition in Turkey.