Top 8 Profitable Business Opportunities in Turkey in 2020 - Jobs Turkey Istanbul Ankara Izmir IT UN NGO Remote Embassy Türkiye (2024)

Turkey has always been an important country in the European region, and for a good reason. The strategic location allows the country to have a unique advantage, and thus, there is no shortage of various industries booming profits in Turkey for many centuries.

As of 2020, Turkey’s economy is sixth largest in the European region and sixteenth largest in the whole world. This shows that Turkey has room for further growth in various global industries, including Oil & Gas, Construction, Information Technology, Automotive, Energy, Natural Stone Mining, and many other sectors.

If you are looking for profitable business opportunities in Turkey, here is a list of the top 8 industry sectors that are currently good for any business startup. Have a look:

1. OCTG Technicians

One should know that the Turkish Natural Oil & Gas market is highly regulated, liberal, and volatile. But it cannot be said the same for the gas sector or other natural resources.

BOTAS controls the gas supply and trade through OCTG pipelines. Although the private oil and gas companies don’t really affect BOTAS with the population increase, private natural gas trade and distribution companies are becoming more active and functional.

The private Oil & Gas companies are starting projects of gas exploration and trading it to other industries with the help of OCTG pipes. Since the Turkish deficit is 130 billion dollars, the Turkish government is expected to invest in huge projects for hydroelectric power, wind energy, solar energy, natural gas, bioenergy, and geothermal energy to close this deficit. By becoming an OCTG technician or by investing in these natural resource projects, one can really hope to gain huge ROIs.

2. Construction

Just like the rest of the world, real estate, construction of private and public spaces, and city renovation projects has become a quite profitable trend in Turkey in the past few years.

There is an abundance of construction companies but there is a huge gap in building energy-efficient and environment-friendly living spaces and conventional construction.

Becoming a civil engineer or starting a business in construction with modern tools and technology that address the concerns of environment and energy efficiency can take you a long way towards success.

3. Information Technology

Due to various hardcore laws by the European Union, there are only a handful of telecom companies that are often in need of a smart person who can handle the tactical side of information technology. Since Turkish IT is not anywhere near Silicon Valley, there is a big opportunity to invest in information technology.

Therefore, any career in IT whether you are a software developer, PHP developer, Data analyst, there is so much room to develop new apps and stuff through biotechnology, nanotechnology, and electronics. Normally these technological startups are very expensive so start small and gradually reach glory.

4. Automotive

According to a study, it is presumed that 25% of the population in Turkey owns a car, and it has been growing since early 2000. This clearly shows that there is a huge potential for automotive factories for the local automotive spare part production.

Having more automotive factories means cars will be available to a large number of people and prices will be significantly less because of local production. Investing in an automotive setup that produces quality spare parts would be your key to make a comfortable living here in Turkey.

5. Tourism

Turkey is a tourist hub for so many foreigners. It attracts tourists of all walks from all over the world. There are so many historical sites that have special significance to Muslims, Christians, and Jews. Besides the historical sites, there are beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and tourist agencies that guide people to enjoy a memorable trip to Turkey.

If you are thinking of an investment, it wouldn’t be bad to invest in a tourism agency. It does take much to establish it and revenues are better, so it is a fair opportunity.

6. Textile

While China is leading, the Turkish textile industry is booming with high production of readymade clothes and contributes tremendously to the total GDP of Turkey.

Turkey has numerous factories that manufacture goods, chemicals, and raw intermediary products. This textile industry is responsible for exporting textiles in European countries. Therefore, textile factories are always looking for investors because there is a huge return on investment. So, secure a job in the textile industry, learn how they run business, and invest a chunk of capital when you are ready.

7. Natural Stone

Turkey is a country that is surrounded by ocean from three sides so there are bound to be mountain ranges here. Through these marble mountains, there are over hundreds of natural stones that are mined and exported to the rest of the world.

Natural stones included onyx, turf, limestone, basalt, granite, travertine, andesite, diabase, and slate are all mined from here, making it the 4th largest marble producer. But the methods of mining and exploration are old and demand upgrades.

Choose a career in mining or invest your money in this sector, surely, there is so much that can be achieved with the implementation of innovative technological solutions.

8. Hazelnut Farming

Turkey produces almost 80% of the world’s hazelnut production. Since agriculture is a big part of Turkey’s economy, hazelnut farming, packaging, and exporting is a profitable business here. The ground is fertile for hazelnuts, a few smart methods to set up the infrastructure, and It is all easy money.

Top 8 Profitable Business Opportunities in Turkey in 2020 - Jobs Turkey Istanbul Ankara Izmir IT UN NGO Remote Embassy Türkiye (2024)

FAQs

What businesses are in demand in Turkey? ›

The most profitable business ideas in Turkey in 2022
  • The automotive sector. The automotive sector is booming in the country, and many people are looking for business ideas that involve cars. ...
  • Food Truck Business. Another option is to set up a food truck. ...
  • Medical Services. ...
  • Become an Uber Driver. ...
  • Online Business.

What business can a foreigner start in Turkey? ›

Can foreigners open a private limited company in Turkey? Yes. A private limited company is the most popular form of business for foreigners and can be set up by two or more non Turkish nationals. At least one shareholder is required to form this type of company, with a minimum share capital of 10,000TL.

What are the business opportunities in Turkey? ›

Have a look:
  • OCTG Technicians. One should know that the Turkish Natural Oil & Gas market is highly regulated, liberal, and volatile. ...
  • Construction. ...
  • Information Technology. ...
  • Automotive. ...
  • Tourism. ...
  • Textile. ...
  • Natural Stone. ...
  • Hazelnut Farming.

How can I make money in Turkey? ›

Different Ways to Earn Money in Turkey
  1. Online Teaching. Online teaching is one of the most popular ways to earn money. ...
  2. Start Your Own Business. The way of making money also matters. ...
  3. App Designer. Are you looking for a way that is proven profitable? ...
  4. School Teaching.
Oct 23, 2022

What American businesses are in Turkey? ›

Well Known Foreign Companies Operating in Turkey
  • 6 Well Known Foreign Companies Operating in Turkey.
  • 1: Coca-Cola. Coca-Cola branched into the Turkish market in 1964, and currently, have 10 plants with 2500 employees all over the country. ...
  • 2: Hyundai. ...
  • 3: Nestle. ...
  • 4: Microsoft. ...
  • 5: Hilton. ...
  • 6: Ericson.
Apr 23, 2018

What is Turkey's biggest source of income? ›

Türkiye's largely market and diversified economy is driven by its industrial and service sectors, but traditional agriculture still accounts for about 25 percent of employment. Relatively high economic growth followed a currency devaluation driven by artificially low interest rates that affected price stability.

Can I work from Turkey for US company? ›

-In general, yes, and it would be totally legal. Working from home as a: A foreign corporation employee, a freelancer, a business owner, and so on. A foreign employee working for a foreign firm with headquarters outside of Turkey is a classic example of a remote worker in Turkey.

Can an American start a business in Turkey? ›

There are no general restrictions on foreign investment, ownership or control in Turkey. Foreign investors are free to incorporate or invest in companies, or open branches or liaison offices.

How much money i need to start a business in Turkey? ›

Even though it is a simple procedure, you should be aware of Turkish bank requirements and obtain assistance from your accountant. Based on the above requirements and according to 2021 data, the legal fees for establishing a company in Turkey are between 1500 and 2000 USD, excluding the service fee.

What is the most wanted job in Turkey? ›

Which job is in high demand in Turkey?
  • Aviation. Airports of Turkey have become a link between the northern and southern parts of the world, Europe and Asia. ...
  • Market of intermediary services for migrants. ...
  • Tourism. ...
  • Light industry. ...
  • Automotive industry.
Jan 24, 2023

What is the best investment in Turkey? ›

Turkey is favored by investors due to its favorable geographic location, skilled labor force, tax incentives, and sophisticated economy. Real estate, tourism, entrepreneurship, and other areas are among the safest investment alternatives.

What are the fastest growing companies in Turkey? ›

İstanbul-based Tripenia IT Tourism Inc., which increased its turnover by 5,808 percent in 2 years, took the first place. Ankara company Türktem Bilişim Construction LTD. STI came in second with a growth rate of 2.543 percent and Antalya-based Finder Fire Safety Electronic Systems Inc. came in third.

What cash is best for Turkey? ›

As we mentioned earlier, cash is an important medium of exchange in Turkey. Pretty much all shops, restaurants, and commercial establishments around the country will accept Turkish lira banknotes, and we recommend having some on hand when you travel.

What money does Turkey prefer? ›

Turkish lira is the national currency of Turkey.

What does Turkey pay per hour? ›

Minimum wage

Accordingly, the net minimum wage in Turkey is 10,003 TRY (518.54 USD)/month, and the gross minimum wage is about 7,603 TRY (407.63 USD)/month. The minimum hourly wage in Turkey is 45 TRY/hour (2.33 USD).

What products are in high demand in Turkey? ›

Turkish Consumer Imports Smart List
#Imported ProductYOY
1Gold (unwrought)+123.5%
2Cars+124.2%
3Processed petroleum oils-33.4%
4Automobile parts/accessories+11.3%
85 more rows

What is the most demanded job in Turkey? ›

Which job is in high demand in Turkey?
  • Aviation. Airports of Turkey have become a link between the northern and southern parts of the world, Europe and Asia. ...
  • Market of intermediary services for migrants. ...
  • Tourism. ...
  • Light industry. ...
  • Automotive industry.
Jan 24, 2023

Which industry is growing in Turkey? ›

The Most Successful Industries in Turkey
  • Tourism. Although Turkey's tourism industry has been heavily impacted by domestic disputes and devastating terrorist attacks last year, it is still one of the most rapidly growing industries. ...
  • Agriculture. ...
  • Cosmetic Treatment. ...
  • Defence. ...
  • Manufacturing.

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