Circular Economy and Sustainable Packaging in Türkiye: 2025 Regulatory Landscape for International Businesses
Türkiye is making significant strides in its transition toward a circular economy. As of 2025, new national strategies, updated packaging standards, and export regulations have come into effect. These developments are particularly important for international entrepreneurs planning to invest, manufacture, or sell their products in Türkiye.
National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan (UDESEP)
In 2025, Türkiye officially launched its first National Circular Economy Action Plan (UDESEP). Developed as part of the country’s 12th Development Plan (2024–2028), UDESEP sets forth a long-term roadmap aimed at reducing waste generation, enhancing recycling systems, and shifting toward a regenerative economic model.
Key objectives of the strategy include:
- resource efficiency: Türkiye currently generates 1.8 units of economic output per kilogram of raw material, compared to the EU average of 2.3; improving this ratio is a national priority
- recycling targets: special emphasis is placed on increasing the recycling rates of plastic packaging waste and reducing marine litter by 92%
New Standards for Retail and Export Sectors
Packaging Regulations
In line with circular economy principles, new product design mandates require packaging to be durable, reusable, and recyclable. These regulations directly affect businesses in the retail sector, which must now ensure their packaging complies with sustainable materials and lifecycle design norms.
Sectoral Priorities
Türkiye has identified specific sectors as strategic under the 12th Development Plan:
- Textile and Leather: water-intensive industries in this category are now required to follow newly revised clean production regulations
- Base Metals: new rules incentivize the recycling of steel and aluminum waste into the production cycle
- Non-metallic Minerals: sustainability compliance for building materials and ceramics has become mandatory
Alignment with EU Green Deal and Global Standards
Türkiye is strengthening its regulatory framework to align with the European Green Deal, incorporating standards that will impact both domestic and export-oriented companies.
Key frameworks already in place include:
- a national Environmental Labelling System, modeled on EU guidelines
- the launch of the National Life Cycle Assessment Database (LCAD), supporting sustainable reporting and product evaluation
- expanded access to international climate finance mechanisms, supporting green investments
Export Compliance Requirements for 2025
Exporting businesses now need to meet the following criteria:
- submit a product life cycle analysis (LCA) report
- document and verify the carbon footprint of their products
- obtain certification for the sustainable use of packaging materials
Climate Law and Emission Trading Updates
In 2025, the Turkish Parliament advanced legislation to institutionalize the country’s climate response. The new Climate Law introduces emission caps and a carbon trading scheme (ETS), focusing initially on large-scale manufacturers. Businesses will be required to monitor, report, and reduce their carbon intensity in line with national targets.
Educational and Advisory Programs
Special programs have been launched to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and international investors comply with circular economy requirements:
- environmental labelling and certification practices
- state-of-the-art waste management techniques
- eco-design and clean production methodologies
These programs are essential for onboarding foreign businesses into Türkiye’s evolving regulatory ecosystem.
Practical Guidance for International Entrepreneurs
Preparation Phase
- conduct an internal audit of your existing product portfolio and packaging materials
- switch to sustainable materials and redesign packaging to comply with circular criteria
- prioritize suppliers committed to low-waste and eco-friendly production
Compliance Process
- apply for the Türkiye Environmental Label Certificate
- enroll in sector-specific training programs provided by Turkish agencies or NGOs
- consult frameworks outlined in the World Bank’s January 2025 report on Circular Economy in Türkiye
Investment Opportunities
Circular economy investments are considered a national priority under Türkiye’s 2053 net-zero target. Promising business areas include:
- environmental engineering and clean tech solutions
- digital tools for lifecycle and emissions tracking
- sustainable materials science and R&D
As demand grows for qualified professionals and green infrastructure, foreign investors can gain a competitive advantage by aligning early with policy benchmarks.
Conclusion
Operating in Türkiye in 2025 requires full alignment with the country’s circular economy and sustainability agenda. From product design and material sourcing to emissions reporting and export documentation, compliance has become not only a legal requirement but a business imperative. International entrepreneurs should take proactive steps now to meet Türkiye’s new standards and leverage the opportunities evolving from its green economic transformation.