Turkey records net direct investment outflow in first half of 2026

Turkey has experienced a significant shift in its investment landscape, recording a net outflow of direct investment in the first half of 2026. For the first time since 2000, Turkish direct investments abroad, totaling $5.339 billion, exceeded foreign direct investments into Turkey, which stood at $4.221 billion, resulting in a deficit of $1.118 billion.

Data from the Central Bank indicates that international direct investment inflows to Turkey fell by 31% compared to the same period in 2025, dropping to $4.221 billion from $6.1 billion. This represents the lowest level of investment inflows for a first half in the last five years. Of the total investment capital, the wholesale and retail trade sector contributed the largest share at $847 million, while the Netherlands was the leading source of investment, accounting for 23% of investment capital inflows.

In addition to direct investments, Turkish portfolio investments abroad reached a record high of $12.098 billion in the first half of the year. Real estate also played a major role in these shifts; Turkish real estate investments abroad reached $1.198 billion, while foreign real estate investments in Turkey were recorded at $1.280 billion.