Latest News from Turkey
Türkiye Officially Launches 5G Nationwide Rollout
Türkiye begins its 5G rollout on April 1, 2026, following a ceremony at the Presidential Complex attended by President Erdoğan. Telecom operators Turkcell, Türk Telekom, and Vodafone will offer services in all 81 provinces, expanding nationwide within two years. Erdoğan hailed it as a milestone for digital sovereignty, transforming sectors like healthcare and defense.
President Erdoğan Hails 5G as Digital Sovereignty Milestone
At the launch ceremony on March 31, President Erdoğan emphasized 5G's role in national security, data management, and geopolitical strength when paired with AI and cybersecurity. The technology is expected to boost productivity across economy, industry, and agriculture.
Services start commercially on April 1 with authorizations until 2042.
Turkey Qualifies for 2026 World Cup After 24-Year Drought
Turkey secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 playoff win over Kosovo, ending a 24-year absence from the tournament. The victory marks a historic return to football's biggest stage.
This achievement highlights strong national team performance.
EBRD Upgrades Türkiye's GDP Growth Outlook to 4.0% in 2026
The EBRD raised its forecast for Türkiye's real GDP growth to 4.0% in 2026 and 4.5% in 2027, following 3.7% growth in 2025. Strong private consumption, investment, and stabilized financial conditions support the upgrade.
Reserves exceeded US$200 billion amid recovered investor confidence.
Türkiye's Trade Deficit Widens to $9 Billion in February
Türkiye's foreign trade deficit grew to $9 billion in February, up yearly, as imports rose 5.5-6.1% to $30 billion while exports increased 1.5-1.6% to $21 billion. Gold and silver imports surged 168.5%, fueling the gap amid strong domestic demand.
Export-import coverage ratio stands at 70.2%.
Turkey's White Goods Exports Decline Sharply in Early 2026
White goods exports fell significantly in January-February 2026 due to weak demand, rising costs, and Chinese competition. This pressures the manufacturing sector, trade balances, and employment.
The drop raises alarms for a key export industry.
Alanya Suspends Forest Cutting, Protecting Local Gardens
Forest clearing in Alanya's agricultural areas is paused ahead of new legislation, safeguarding olive, almond, and walnut gardens for thousands of landowners. This provides relief to garden owners in the region.
The suspension is welcome news for local agriculture.
Italy Deploys Turkish TB3 Drones from Aircraft Carrier
Italy becomes the first European nation to operate Turkish Bayraktar TB3 drones on its aircraft carrier, enhancing naval surveillance and strike capabilities. This boosts Turkey's defense exports and international partnerships.
The deployment marks a milestone in naval technology.
'Türkiye Park' Opens in El Salvador with Atatürk Bust
A new park themed around Türkiye opened in San Salvador, featuring a bust of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and promoting cultural ties between the two nations. The initiative strengthens bilateral relations.
It highlights Türkiye's global cultural outreach.
Turkey Promotes 'Zero Waste' Initiative at COP31
Türkiye will showcase its 'Zero Waste' project at COP31, focusing on sustainable production, consumption, and waste reduction strategies. The effort emphasizes global environmental leadership.
It aligns with national sustainability goals.
ING Revises Turkey's 2026 Growth Forecast Downward to 3.4%
ING cut its 2026 GDP growth forecast for Turkey to 3.4% from 4%, citing tighter conditions and net export pressures. Current account deficit is expected at US$45 billion.
Central Bank plans to expand OMO portfolio significantly.
Turkey's Economy Shows Resilience with Lower Inflation, Surging Stocks
Turkey's economy powers ahead with a surging stock market, inflation at 30% (down from 44.4%), and strong sector performance despite political risks. GDP growth forecasts raised to 3.8% for 2025 by some banks.
Hosting major summits like NATO and COP31 in 2026 boosts global profile.