Istanbul – April 17, 2026
A major privatization initiative involving Istanbul’s Bosphorus bridges and a network of highways has attracted international interest, with a leading Portuguese motorway operator emerging as a potential bidder.
According to reports, officials from Turkey’s Privatization Administration and consultancy firm EY traveled to Portugal to meet with prominent European highway operators. As part of these discussions, the Turkish delegation held talks with senior executives of Brisa, Portugal’s largest motorway operator. The outcome of the meeting has not yet been disclosed.
Brisa had previously expressed interest in Turkey’s earlier privatization efforts, stating ambitions to make Turkey one of its key international markets. The company currently operates approximately 1,500 kilometers of highways in Portugal and maintains operations in the United States, although it has divested assets in Brazil and the Netherlands.
New Tender Expected
Sources indicate that the tender specifications for the project may be published in May or June, with the process expected to accelerate depending on investor interest.
The project is not a full sale but rather a transfer of operating rights for a fixed period. Maintenance and operational costs would be handled by the private sector.
Government Targets Higher Privatization Revenue
The Turkish government aims to significantly increase privatization revenues—from 37 billion Turkish lira in 2025 to 185 billion lira this year. The bridge and highway tender is expected to play a key role in reaching this target.
High Revenue Potential, High Costs
The Bosphorus bridges are considered highly valuable assets, with approximately 430,000 vehicles crossing daily. However, sources emphasize that despite strong and stable revenue potential, the infrastructure requires substantial maintenance and investment, which could be a key concern for investors.
Previous Attempts Failed
A similar privatization attempt in 2013 was canceled after the highest bid of $5.7 billion was deemed insufficient. In an earlier 2012 tender, a consortium had won with a similar bid, but the deal was ultimately scrapped due to political objections over valuation.
With a new tender expected to command a significantly higher valuation, international interest—such as that from Portugal—suggests renewed momentum in one of Turkey’s most high-profile infrastructure privatization efforts.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök