Global Scans · Turkey · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Uncertainties over Turkey's eventual political position abound. With EU decisions in doubt, recent crackdown on opposition parties causing concerns, and being embroiled in complex Middle East politics and fighting terrorism on its borders and internally, which way will she swing?

• [New] Despite the wide range of investment opportunities available in 2026, Turkish real estate stands out as a stable option that combines security with sustainable returns - especially in light of positive economic indicators. OmranTRK
• [New] Turkey is close to finalizing a major international solar power agreement that could be signed during a potential Gulf visit by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in February. Daily Sabah
• [New] After completing seismic surveys in Somalia in 2025, Turkey plans to begin its first offshore drilling campaign there in 2026, using the ultra-deepwater vessel Cagri Bey. Daily Sabah
• [New] Turkey plans to move beyond traditional vertical drilling by introducing horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, testing 24 wells over the next three to four years across a 600-square-kilometer pilot area. Daily Sabah
• [New] In parallel, Turkey will continue developing the Goktepe field, where it last year announced a gas discovery valued at roughly $37 billion at current prices. Daily Sabah
• [New] In 2026, daily production will rise to 20 million cubic meters, supplying roughly 8 million homes. / Turkey Daily Sabah
• [New] ESG sukuk momentum is expected to continue in 2026, supported by sustainability mandates, net-zero targets, new frameworks, robust investor demand, and the upcoming COP 31 in Turkey. Mettis Global Link
• [New] Turkey's economy will grow 3.9% in 2026 and 4.1% in 2027, while inflation is expected to continue declining but remain in double digits at 22.4% in 2026 and 19.8% in 2027. Turkiye Today
• [New] Turkey plans its first overseas deepwater drilling off Somalia within weeks. Forbes
• [New] The Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey continued to lower policy rates despite still elevated inflationary pressures and rising macroeconomic risks. Turkiye Today
• [New] The Akkuyu nuclear power plant, a 4.8-gigawatt facility, is projected to launch in 2026, generating approximately 10% of Turkey's electricity. Foreign Affairs Forum
• [New] The Akkuyu nuclear plant's launch, combined with renewable energy expansion and domestic Black Sea gas production, represents Turkey's effort to reduce energy vulnerability whilst maintaining engagement across competing powers. Foreign Affairs Forum
• [New] Turkish yards particularly are expanding capability, with AKYACHT's Project Jash, exceeding 100 meters and scheduled for 2028, which will become the largest superyacht built in Turkey. Lumenautica Yacht Signs
• [New] Trip.com's 2026 Global Travel Trends forecasts a vibrant year of broad mobility and immersive experiences, with Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand, and Turkey emerging as standout destinations with strong booking growth. Travel + Leisure
• [New] The Turkish tourism sector is exploring opportunities in emerging markets, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. Travel And Tour World
• [New] The new visa-free policy is expected to further boost Turkey's tourism sector, particularly by attracting more visitors from China. Travel And Tour World
• The Akkuyu nuclear power plant, a 4.8-gigawatt facility supplied by Russian conglomerate Rosatom, is projected to launch in 2026, generating approximately 10% of Turkey's electricity whilst ensuring ongoing technological dependence on Russia. Foreign Affairs Forum
• 2026 will see the launch of Turkey's first nuclear power plant, Akkuyu. Daily Sabah
• A second, higher-capacity floating production platform is scheduled to come online in 2028, allowing Turkey to complete the first three phases of the Sakarya project and meet the gas needs of 17 million households. Daily Sabah
• After a year marked by some of the biggest energy breakthroughs in its recent history, Turkey plans to build further momentum in 2026 by ramping up domestic production, expanding renewable capacity and deepening international cooperation. Daily Sabah
• Turkey's renegotiation of Russian gas contracts in 2026 will determine whether Ankara consolidates its role as a balancer between blocs or whether strategic vulnerabilities emerge. Foreign Affairs Forum
• Simultaneously, Turkey is executing deliberate diversification wherein domestic Black Sea gas production, expanded liquified natural gas infrastructure, and long-term contracts with the United States and Australia collectively replace approximately 40% of Russian gas imports by 2028. Foreign Affairs Forum
• Turkish Airlines has launched a comprehensive investment initiative that will strengthen Turkey's aviation infrastructure and further advance its competitive edge. The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News

Last updated: 19 January 2026