As the UK navigates its economic and fiscal challenges, Turkish businesses have a unique opportunity and value proposition to deepen economic links with the British market. With the UK seeking to secure foreign investment, boost trade, and diversify its relationships with emerging markets post-Brexit, Turkey stands out as a key partner. However, while the prospects are significant, they are not guaranteed. The real risk lies in the competitive context of the UK’s trade priorities, which could overshadow opportunities for Turkish businesses.

Tolga Inanc, Public Affairs Consultant*

Competing Trade Agendas

In addition to work to prevent incoming Trump tariffs, the UK government recently announced free trade talks with India, adding it to an ambitious list of large, high-growth markets it is actively prioritising trade deals, such as South Korea and others in the Indo-Pacific region. The focus on securing comprehensive deals with these countries – and the prospect of re-start trade talks with the US – risks limiting the UK’s attention on the breadth of opportunities available from expanding the FTA with Turkey, signed in 2020. Despite its location, dynamic economy, and historical ties with the UK, there is a need for the Turkish businesses to actively showcase their value proposition to policymakers and supplement diplomatic efforts by ministers and officials.

The Importance of Strategic Engagement

Cross-party commitment to an expanded UK-Turkey trade agreement, while important, does not automatically guarantee Turkish companies a foothold in the UK market (or British companies in the Turkish market). The UK’s economic recovery and growth depend on diversifying trade relationships, and competition for government and policymaker attention is fierce. Without a concerted effort to advocate for Turkey’s importance in this landscape, Turkish businesses could see slower progress on market access, tariff liberalisation, trade expansions, and investment opportunities.

Building a Public Affairs Campaign

To navigate this environment, Turkish businesses need to engage in a systematic stakeholder engagement and public affairs campaign. The UK’s political and economic decision-making processes are unique, and there are key strategies that Turkish businesses can adopt to ensure they are part of the conversation.

A critical step is establishing a bespoke line of engagement with UK policymakers, particularly those with influence over trade decisions. Competitors routinely engage with government representatives and Parliamentarians, including key Select Committees, industry and interest groups. Turkish companies have the insight and resources to do this too, by participating in trade missions, hosting or attending business forums, and facilitating public-private sector dialogues. Direct relationships with key stakeholders can ensure that specific corporate interests are understood and prioritized.

Partnering with UK Industry Groups

Equally important is collaboration with UK industry associations and trade bodies. Organisations like the British Chambers of Commerce, CBI or sector-specific groups are vital in shaping the UK’s economic agenda. By aligning with these bodies, Turkish businesses can increase their visibility as a serious industry voice and demonstrate their importance to the UK economy. Advocacy through such groups can also help position Turkey as a strategic partner, not just in trade, but in broader economic and geopolitical matters.

Another essential tactic is identifying and engaging with public consultations on UK trade policy and economic strategy. Turkish businesses should ensure their views are represented, particularly around greater trade and market access. By presenting well-reasoned arguments about the mutual benefits of deeper UK-Turkey trade relations, companies can inform and shape policymaking in ways that benefit both sides.

Moreover, the Turkish diaspora in the UK is a powerful voice that can be leveraged. This community, with its deep-rooted connections to the UK, can act as a bridge to increase mutual understanding and dialogue. Building alliances with diaspora groups can amplify business interests and create a network of support for policy priorities centred around entrepreneurship, industry and economic growth.

Showcasing Innovation Aligned with UK Priorities

Finally, Turkish companies must showcase their innovation, particularly in sectors like technology, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. These industries align closely with the UK’s long-term economic goals, and Turkish firms that offer cutting-edge solutions are more likely to find paths to market access and investment opportunities with an effective and comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategy.

The opportunities for Turkish businesses in the UK are substantial, but they will not materialise unless companies take proactive steps to stand out from the crowd. A holistic public affairs approach is essential—one that combines direct engagement, collaboration with industry groups, participation in policy discussions, and leveraging longstanding cultural ties with the Turkish diaspora. By positioning themselves as partners in the UK’s economic growth, Turkish businesses can be seen as the solution for policymakers and play a significant role in the UK.

Tolga Inanc, Public Affairs Consultant*