Digital services next in line in Turkey–UK trade deal talks

The trade relationship between Turkey and the United Kingdom is preparing for a new phase. According to information compiled by Anadolu Agency, 5 rounds have been completed and 11 chapters closed in negotiations on an 'enhanced' free trade agreement, which began in March 2024 and is expected to replace the deal that entered into force after Brexit.

What is on the negotiating table?

The 5th round, held in Ankara on 15–23 June, covered digital trade, telecommunications, investment, legal services, market access for trade in goods, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Intellectual property, public procurement and sustainability were also on the agenda. Strong progress was made on legal services, and the 6th round is expected to take place in the autumn.

What does the business community expect?

Chris Gaunt, President of the British Chamber of Commerce in Turkey (BCCT), says trade between the two countries stands at around £28 billion and is growing every year. Gaunt notes that service sectors, led by financial services, have been included in the negotiations, which he believes will strengthen Turkey's services sector.

It is a great advantage for UK technology companies specialising in AI to work together with the growing number of Turkish companies working on AI in Turkey. — Chris Gaunt, President of BCCT

What does it mean for digital service exporters?

The text of the agreement has not yet been published, so the concrete rules are not known. However, the fact that digital trade is on the table as a separate heading suggests that cross-border work could become easier for companies selling software, consultancy, design and digital marketing services. It may make sense for companies targeting the UK market to follow the autumn round and strengthen their relationships with British partners now.