Credit Opportunities in Türkiye: Framework for International Entrepreneurs in 2026

For foreign companies and international entrepreneurs, access to credit in Türkiye spans a broad spectrum—from traditional commercial loans to state-supported mechanisms. However, the effectiveness, cost structure, and accessibility of these financing options differ significantly.

Sources and Cost Comparison of Credit

Under current market conditions, Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye (CBRT) rediscount loans in Turkish lira (TL) and foreign currency remain the most cost-effective options for companies engaged in export and foreign currency–earning activities. The cost of these loans is substantially lower than that of standard commercial loans.

If rediscount loans are not accessible, commercial loans denominated in EUR (27.5%) and USD (31.5%) are preferable. Otherwise, TL-based instruments such as bonds, bills, or commercial loans remain the main financing tools.

Government-Supported Financing Mechanisms

Türk Eximbank Support

Türk Eximbank is the most comprehensive financial institution providing resources for international entrepreneurs. In 2026, it offers a total of 59 billion USD in support—28 billion in loans and 31 billion in insurance coverage.

Main financing tools offered by Türk Eximbank include:

• buyer credits: covering 26.8% of total export value, with limits exceeding 1 billion USD across 94 countries
• foreign currency rediscount loans: limit raised from 1.5 million USD to 5 million USD
• letter of credit discounting: newly introduced for foreign trade products

Credit Guarantee System

Through İhracatı Geliştirme A.Ş. (İGE A.Ş.), the credit guarantee system provided 198.9 billion TL in guarantees in 2025, with the aim of reaching 290 billion TL in 2026.

Key flexibilities under this mechanism include:

• daily limit per company: increased from 45 million TL to 60 million TL
• foreign currency rediscount loan limits: raised from 1.5 million USD to 5 million USD
• foreign exchange position flexibility: companies may hold up to 10% of their FX position in foreign currency holdings

Türk Ticaret Bankası

Türk Ticaret Bankası aims to provide 100 billion TL in financing support in 2026, strengthening liquidity opportunities for export-oriented businesses.

Special Incentives for Technology Acquisition and International Expansion

To support international entrepreneurs acquiring advanced technology companies abroad, Türkiye has introduced a comprehensive incentive program starting in 2026.

Interest Support Mechanism

When using credit for overseas acquisitions, the following incentives apply:

• for TL loans: 5 percentage points of interest support
• for foreign currency loans: 2 percentage points of interest support
• total support limit: 171 million TL
• support duration: 5 years from the first interest payment
• coverage rate: up to 50% of interest paid

Consulting and Legal Support

Financial and legal consultancy costs incurred before international acquisitions are supported up to 28 million TL annually, with a 50% contribution rate.

Physical Presence Abroad (Rent and Office)

Expenses for offices and coworking memberships abroad are partially covered:

• companies with offices: annual support up to 7.5 million TL per country (50% reimbursement)
• companies without offices but with registered trademarks: support up to 15 million TL annually

Foreign Currency Loan Restrictions and Content

To maintain macro-financial stability, the CBRT imposes certain restrictions on foreign currency loans:

• growth cap: reduced to 0.5% for eight-week periods (previously 1%)
• narrowed exemption scope: some foreign currency loans are no longer exempt from regulation

This is particularly important for companies relying on USD or EUR-denominated financing, requiring careful operational planning.

Foreign Exchange Income and Exchange Rate Support

To enhance the cash flow of exporters:

• 30% of export proceeds must continue to be sold to the CBRT (mandatory)
• a 3% exchange rate conversion support is paid to companies converting foreign currency into TL
• this regulation remains effective until 30 April 2026

Strategic Insights and Decision Criteria

For international entrepreneurs, the choice of financing in Türkiye should be guided by several key factors:

• Export-Oriented Operations: CBRT rediscount credits offer the lowest cost but limited accessibility; Türk Eximbank mechanisms provide wider reach and flexibility.
• Technology Acquisition: with 171 million TL in interest support and 28 million TL in consultancy support, this incentive package strategically encourages overseas technology company acquisitions.
• Physical Presence Abroad: partial state coverage of office and rental expenses reduces entry costs in new markets.
• Foreign Exchange Risk Management: CBRT’s stricter foreign currency credit rules push businesses toward TL financing, while exchange rate conversion support adds a financial advantage for those converting currencies.