ANKARA — Turkey’s Minister of Treasury and Finance, Mehmet Şimşek, has stated that the country’s tourism sector continues to demonstrate resilience despite global economic and geopolitical challenges.
Evaluating the latest tourism statistics for the first quarter of 2026, Şimşek noted that tourism revenues increased by 1.3% year-on-year in March, highlighting the sector’s steady performance.
Tourism Revenues Reach $65.6 Billion
According to the data, annualized tourism revenue reached $65.6 billion in the first quarter, while the number of visitors climbed to 64.1 million.
Şimşek emphasized that this performance reflects the sector’s ability to withstand external pressures, stating that tourism remains a key contributor to Turkey’s economy.
Importance of Service Exports
Highlighting the growing importance of services in global trade, Şimşek said that tourism revenues play a critical role in maintaining economic balance, particularly during periods of global trade difficulties.
He also noted that the government has taken swift measures to limit the impact of geopolitical developments on the tourism industry.
Government Support Measures
As part of these efforts, the government introduced a Tourism Support Package, providing additional guarantees and loan opportunities to businesses in the sector.
Şimşek stressed that supporting foreign currency–earning sectors like tourism will remain a priority in order to ensure lasting improvements in the current account balance.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök