Istanbul as a Gaming Hub: Why Major Publishers are Opening Offices
Türkiye’s Game Industry: Foreign Investment and Incentive Ecosystem by 2026
The Turkish gaming market experienced remarkable growth, expanding by 25% and reaching $1.01 billion in 2025. Today, the country hosts nearly 50 million active players. Behind this strong performance lies a combination of government support, a growing technology ecosystem, and increasing interest from international investors.
Foreign Capital Is Turning Toward Türkiye
International investor participation in the Turkish gaming ecosystem has steadily increased over the last several years. Foreign investment accounted for approximately 10% of total investment activity in 2023, rose to 15% in 2024, and reached 18% in 2025. This trend reflects growing confidence in Türkiye’s gaming and technology sectors.
During 2024–2025, Türkiye ranked among the top five countries in Europe and the MENA region for early-stage investment activity, highlighting the strong potential of local gaming ventures.
The mobile gaming segment has been particularly successful. Following a major investment of approximately $1 billion into Loom Games, which became Türkiye’s seventh unicorn, the country’s gaming industry further strengthened its position on the global stage.
The 2026 Support Framework
A major milestone arrived with Presidential Decree No. 10962, issued on 27 February 2026, introducing several important changes for technology and gaming companies.
Service Sectors Launch Program
One of the most significant updates was the removal of the requirement that companies must have been established for at least one year before applying for government support.
As of 2026, even newly established gaming startups can apply for incentive programs immediately after incorporation, creating valuable opportunities for early-stage ventures.
Digital Product Support for Technology Companies
Gaming studios, software companies, and mobile application developers can receive support covering 50% of eligible advertising and marketing expenses.
Support limits include:
- Up to 50 million TL annually per company
- Up to 15 million TL per digital product
- Support available for up to 10 products per company
This makes the program one of the most attractive incentive schemes available to technology businesses in Türkiye.
Ministry of Trade Support for Export-Oriented Services
The Turkish Ministry of Trade actively supports the international expansion of gaming and software companies.
Beyond tax-related incentives, companies can receive direct reimbursement for documented expenditures. Estimated support levels for 2026 include:
| Support Category | Support Rate | Estimated Limit | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commission Fees | 50% | ~4 million TL | App Store, Google Play, Steam commissions |
| Advertising & Promotion | 60% | ~20 million TL | Google, Meta, Unity, TikTok campaigns |
| Foreign Personnel Salaries | 50% | ~1.2 million TL per employee | Developers, designers, and technical specialists |
| Market Entry Activities | 50% | ~2.7 million TL | Market research, consulting, and expansion reports |
These incentives are generally provided through reimbursement mechanisms upon submission of supporting documentation, helping companies improve cash flow while scaling internationally.
Technopark Advantages
Gaming companies operating within Technology Development Zones (Technoparks) benefit from several important incentives, including:
- VAT exemption
- Income tax withholding incentives
- Employer social security premium support
- Stamp duty exemption
- R&D tax deductions
For larger studios, establishing an R&D Center structure can provide additional cost advantages and tax benefits.
Furthermore, companies investing in server infrastructure or data centers may qualify for an Investment Incentive Certificate, which can include customs duty exemptions and financing support.
Internationalization Programs
Türkiye also offers specialized internationalization programs designed to help technology companies compete globally.
Programs such as E-Turquality (Stars of Tech) and the Internationalization of Türkiye’s Technology Sector Programprovide support in areas including:
- International marketing
- Brand development
- Participation in international exhibitions and trade fairs
- Employment of foreign specialists
- Digital platform commission expenses
These initiatives significantly reduce the financial barriers associated with entering global markets.
Support Guaranteed Until 2028
The Turkish government has officially announced that the current support framework will remain in place until 2028, providing gaming companies with long-term visibility for strategic planning and investment decisions.
Recent regulatory updates have consistently expanded available support mechanisms, creating an increasingly favorable environment for developers, publishers, and technology startups.
Conclusion
By 2026, the Turkish gaming industry has evolved beyond a local entrepreneurial ecosystem into a globally competitive sector supported by a comprehensive incentive framework.
With strong domestic demand, increasing foreign investment, substantial government support, and long-term policy stability, Türkiye continues to position itself as one of the most attractive emerging gaming markets in Europe and the broader MENA region.
