Türkiye and the UK are moving toward a broader trade agreement that would expand bilateral economic ties into services, digital trade and technology, building on a relationship that has seen trade grow steadily in recent years.
Negotiators have completed five rounds of talks since discussions began in March 2024, with the latest round held in Ankara from June 15 to 23.
The sixth round is expected to take place in the fall.
The enhanced agreement is intended to replace the existing Türkiye-UK trade pact that came into force after Britain left the European Union.
Services and technology take centre stage
The latest negotiations covered digital trade, telecommunications, investment, legal services and market access, while officials also discussed intellectual property, public procurement and sustainability.
Chris Gaunt, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Türkiye, described the negotiations as a positive step and said expanding the agreement to services could open new opportunities for both economies.
He highlighted the UK's experience in financial and professional services, saying greater cooperation could contribute to the development of Türkiye's services sector.
Gaunt also pointed to agriculture, education, advanced engineering and technology as areas with potential for deeper commercial ties.
“Türkiye has always been a priority market for the UK,” he said.
Trade reaches $38 billion
Bilateral trade rose 4.3 percent year-on-year to £28.4 billion ($38 billion) in 2025, underscoring the scale of the economic relationship as the two countries negotiate an expanded framework.
Gaunt said British companies remain interested in increasing their activities in Türkiye despite geopolitical challenges that can affect inflation and living costs.
He also described Türkiye as a platform for British businesses seeking access to markets across Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa, citing the country's geographic position and established commercial links.
Tech partnerships offer new opportunities
The digital economy is another area expected to gain prominence under an expanded agreement.
Gaunt said Türkiye's technology startup ecosystem has grown rapidly, while Turkish technology companies are increasingly looking to international partnerships to expand globally.
He said the chamber is encouraging British businesses to explore opportunities in Türkiye and plans to organize side events in Antalya during the 31st UN Climate Change Conference, which Türkiye will host.
“Don't ignore Türkiye. Türkiye's got enormous potential, and you don't want to get left behind,” Gaunt said.
He added that the expanded agreement could give UK companies a clearer understanding of Türkiye's business environment and help them make more informed investment decisions.
