E-Commerce in Türkiye: A Driver of Economic Growth and Trade
Türkiye is experiencing a historic digital transformation that goes far beyond lifestyle and tech trends. Over the past years, e-commerce has evolved into one of the country’s most powerful economic engines, setting new benchmarks for growth, employment, and international trade. According to a recent report by Dogma Alares, Iyzico, and ETID, online trade volume in 2024 surpassed 3 trillion Turkish lira – an impressive 62 percent increase compared to the previous year. This surge clearly shows that the digital economy has become an essential pillar of Türkiye’s GDP.
From Niche Market to Economic Powerhouse
Just a few years ago, Türkiye’s e-commerce sector was seen as an emerging but relatively small market. In 2019, total volume stood at only 0.14 trillion lira, with e-commerce contributing about 2.7 percent to GDP. Today, that share has grown to 6.5 percent. A clear indication of how quickly digital business models have integrated into everyday life. Rising internet penetration, improved infrastructure, and growing trust in online payments have all played a key role in accelerating this transformation.
Trust in digital transactions has increased significantly. Credit cards still dominate, but alternative payment providers like Iyzico are gaining strong momentum. More consumers are embracing innovative payment platforms, fueling competition and improving customer experience. At the same time, the range of products available online is expanding rapidly: while fashion and accessories remain top sellers, categories like fast delivery services, digital content, and hobby products are recording remarkable growth rates.
The International Outlook
Türkiye’s ambitions extend far beyond its domestic market. The government has set bold targets: by 2028, it aims for e-commerce to account for 10 percent of all goods exports. Digital platforms such as “e-KİP” are being developed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) compete globally. With artificial intelligence, centralized databases, and automated processes, these initiatives are opening new markets and making Turkish products more visible in the global online economy.
Regulatory measures like the E-Commerce Information System (ETBIS) are also strengthening transparency and trust. By enabling more precise tracking and regulation of the sector, such initiatives benefit both investors and consumers.
Conclusion: Digital Momentum with a Future
E-commerce in Türkiye is far more than just a sales channel – it is a catalyst for economic transformation. It creates jobs, boosts domestic consumption, enhances international competitiveness, and positions the country as a digitally advanced trading nation. The combination of technological innovation, political commitment, and entrepreneurial drive suggests that this upward trend is far from reaching its peak.