Turkish insurance sector focuses on climate risk and food security

The Turkish insurance sector is increasingly focusing on climate change risks and food security. Bekir Engürülü, General Manager of TARSİM, reported that following catastrophic frost events in 2025, insurance awareness among producers has risen. Currently, 29.55% of insurable crop areas in Turkey are covered, and 56% of registered livestock is protected under TARSİM. In 2025, total compensation payments to producers reached 35 billion TL.

To combat climate risks, new models such as income protection insurance and parcel-based yield insurance are being implemented. Engürülü emphasized that food security is as vital as national defense.

Simultaneously, the Insurance Association of Turkey (TSB) is preparing for COP31, aiming to bring Turkish insurance priorities to the international stage. Climate scientist Prof. Dr. Levent Kurnaz noted that the focus must shift from attempting to stop climate change to managing its impacts and adaptation. Experts suggest that insurers must play a central role in pricing these new risks and developing adaptation strategies.