Turkey, a nation straddling the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts a rich tapestry of history, cultural diversity, and a rapidly developing economy. Yet, within its borders, the intricate dynamics of illicit trade have cast a shadow on its otherwise vibrant landscape. With a sizable population, varied markets, and a strategic location connecting two continents, Turkey has emerged as a fertile ground for a myriad of illicit activities. Serving as a crucial trading link in the region, Turkey's economic prowess, coupled with its unique geographic position, renders it vulnerable to a diverse array of illicit trade practices.

Country Snapshot

Türkiye faces a structural illicit trade challenge with clear economic and fiscal implications.

Illicit activity persists across regulated sectors such as alcohol, tobacco, and petroleum, undermining revenue collection, market integrity, and efforts to reduce informality.

While Türkiye performs relatively well in trade, customs, and border controls, sector-specific risks remain high, pointing to the need for stronger coordination, targeted enforcement, and policy follow-through. Addressing these gaps would support revenue recovery, strengthen investor confidence, and advance broader economic objectives.

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Featured Report

Inflation, product affordability, and illicit trade: Spotlight on Turkiye (December 2022) 
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The TRACIT report Inflation, product affordability, and illicit trade: Spotlight on Turkiye investigates the challenges the country faces with soaring inflation and illicit trade on multiple fronts. Given the negative impact high levels of inflation has on the market dynamics that drive illicit trade dynamics, the TRACIT report encourages Turkiye to be more vigilant in its efforts to defend its economy from illicit trade and proposes a set of policy recommendations to fortify the government’s efforts to control illicit trade. 
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​Report: Inflation, product affordability, and illicit trade: Spotlight on Turkiye

​Raporlamak: Enflasyon, satin alma gücü ve yasa dişi ticaret: Türkiye'ye ilişkin analiz
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MEDIA CENTER

TRACIT's Op-Ed about the situation in Turkey in the Fair Observer.

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Media Release English 
Media Release Türkçe ​

EVENTS

January 2026 - Ankara
TRACIT participated in the Conference on Combating Illicit Trade in Ankara, hosted by the Ankara Chamber of Commerce (ATO).
The discussion focused on the economic and fiscal impact of illicit trade in Türkiye and the need for more structured, cross-sector coordination.
Access the conference agenda (in Turkish)