Turkish business associations urge digital and AI transformation

Various Turkish business associations are emphasizing the necessity of digital transformation and artificial intelligence to maintain global competitiveness.

In Antalya, the Antalya Young Businessmen Association (ANTGİAD) launched its 2026-2027 season with a focus on geopolitical shifts and their impact on the Turkish economy. During the meeting, Chairman Ercan Yavaş highlighted the association's work in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and export, while also proposing the creation of an 'Investor Victimization Fund' to protect capital markets.

In the Aegean region, the Aegean Young Businessmen Association (EGİAD) held a seminar on AI and data-driven transformation. Chairman M. Kaan Özhelvacı noted that true competition lies in creating value from data rather than simply possessing AI tools. He cited data showing that while AI usage in Turkish enterprises rose to 7.5% in 2025, large-scale enterprises with over 250 employees show a significantly higher adoption rate of 24.1%.

Additionally, the Gaziantep Exporters' Association (GAİB) has designated September as 'Artificial Intelligence Month' to increase awareness among exporters. GAİB Coordinator Mete Akcan stated that the association is working to ensure exporters leverage new technologies to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global trade environment.