Turkey chambers of commerce enter critical election cycles

Various chambers of commerce and industry across Turkey are entering critical election cycles, with candidates presenting diverse economic visions and facing procedural challenges.

In Bandırma, Bahadır Çolak has announced his ‘Bandırma 2030’ vision, focusing on logistics and a high-capacity truck park to leverage the region's strategic position. Meanwhile, in Malatya, Mahmut Boyraz is campaigning with a goal to reach $1 billion in exports within one year. In Kars, Kadir Bozan is seeking re-election, highlighting strengthened trade ties with Azerbaijan and new flight routes to Baku.

Election integrity and democratic representation have become points of contention in some regions. In Diyarbakır, the DOSİAD association has protested the DTSO election schedule, labeling it a ‘raid election’ that excludes a significant portion of the membership. In Antalya, Yusuf Hacısüleyman is reviewing his four-year term, emphasizing the ‘Antalya 2050 Vision’ and digital transformation.

Other notable leadership transitions include M. Hanefi Öksüz, who is stepping down from his long-term role at the Kahramanmaraş Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KMTSO) to make way for younger leadership. In Ünye, İrfan Akar is campaigning for the ‘Green List’ to boost local commercial vitality, and in Vezirköprü, Hayati Ağca is seeking to move the business community into active decision-making roles.