Biomaterials and Bioplastics Industry in Türkiye: 2025 Market Overview and Investment Opportunities

The biomaterials and bioplastics industry in Türkiye is experiencing a decisive transformation, driven by sustainability targets, circular economy strategies, and compliance with international environmental regulations. With the support of TÜBİTAK and innovation platforms such as TEKNOFEST, local entrepreneurs are beginning to turn agricultural waste into advanced bioplastic materials—offering alternatives to petrochemical-based plastics.

Local Production and Innovative Startups

One of Türkiye’s most promising bioplastic ventures was founded by Ebru Baripoğlu and Arda Kılınçkını. Their biotechnology company transforms agricultural and food waste—particularly tea factory residues and eggshells—into bioplastic raw materials through upcycling methods. These materials are already being used in the production of kitchen utensils, demonstrating the commercial potential of locally sourced biomaterials.

Supported by TÜBİTAK, the bio-based materials developed by this startup feature flexible, natural formulations suitable for a wide range of applications. The initiative not only reduces environmental impact but also aligns with Türkiye’s climate and environmental regulations under the National Climate Law.

Expansion Plans and Target Sectors

• automotive industry: R&D collaborations are ongoing to develop bioplastic components such as interior trims and bumpers
• packaging and industrial goods: the company plans to enter these sectors through injection molding methods; packaging currently accounts for about 47% of the global bioplastic demand
• other applications: bioplastics are gaining ground in catering supplies, consumer electronics, agriculture, toys, and textiles

Market Size and Growth Potential

Although domestic production in Türkiye remains limited, bioplastic consumption has been increasing steadily. It is estimated that Türkiye used around 80,000 tons of bioplastic materials in 2020, most of which were imported.

Globally, total bioplastic production capacity reached 2.11 million tons in 2020 and is projected to expand to approximately 6.3 million tons by 2027. Biodegradable plastics already account for more than 64% of total bioplastic output, indicating strong demand for environmentally friendly materials worldwide.

Material Types and Technological Advances

In the Turkish market, leading bioplastic types include PLA (Polylactic Acid), starch blends, PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PA (Polyamide), PBS (Polybutylene Succinate), and PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoate). Technological developments are particularly significant in PBAT, PBS, and PHA production—expected to grow by 500%, 226.5%, and 166.7%, respectively. These materials not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also rely on renewable feedstocks.

International Market and Export Potential

Türkiye’s growing bioplastics industry is expanding beyond domestic borders. The first international markets under consideration are the European Union and the Middle East, especially the United Arab Emirates, Germany, and the Netherlands. Such collaborations open new opportunities for foreign investors interested in export partnerships, technology transfers, and sustainable production ventures.

Raw Material Sources and Sustainability

Türkiye’s rich agricultural resources offer a major advantage for bioplastic production. Tea residues, eggshells, and other agricultural wastes can serve as feedstock for sustainable material manufacturing. On a global scale, bioplastic production requires minimal agricultural land use—less than 0.02% of total farmland in 2020—making it a viable option for large-scale sustainability initiatives.

Government Support and Incentives

TÜBİTAK continues to play a key role in promoting bioplastic research and development through funding programs dedicated to efficient raw material use. The Ministry of Industry and Technology and the T3 Foundation also support startups via initiatives such as TEKNOFEST, which fosters collaboration among entrepreneurs, engineers, and investors.

In the 2024–2025 period, TÜBİTAK prioritizes R&D projects that improve bioplastic efficiency and scaling potential, creating funding opportunities for both domestic and international investors seeking entry into Türkiye’s sustainable materials market.

Key Importers and Market Players

Major bioplastic importers in Türkiye include Kumru Kimya, Gema Polimer, Resinex, and Sunar Group. However, because bioplastics are not distinguished by a specific customs code (GTIP), their import statistics are tracked under broader plastic categories—making detailed market analysis complex but not impossible for data-driven investors.

Challenges and Emerging Opportunities

The main challenges facing Türkiye’s bioplastic industry include production costs, scalability, and the absence of an established recycling infrastructure. Despite these limitations, climate regulations and environmental legislation are creating new opportunities for sustainable materials.

With Türkiye’s strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the country offers a unique position for entrepreneurs looking to establish a manufacturing hub or regional distribution base in the fast-growing field of bioplastics. Investors integrating innovation, circular economy principles, and renewable resource utilization will find Türkiye an accessible and promising market in 2025 and beyond.