Business
The Commercial Code No. 6102 with joint stock and limited companies
The Turkish Commercial Code of 2011, in force from July 2012, governs companies, commercial transactions and negotiable instruments. The limited liability company and the joint stock company are the principal forms, registered with the trade registry through MERSIS.
Key rules
- Jurisdiction — National. Commercial courts of first instance hear company and commercial disputes.
Governing law
- Turkish Commercial Code No. 61022011, in force 1 July 2012
- Capital Markets Law No. 63622012
- Law No. 4875 on Foreign Direct Investment2003
In practice
The 2011 Commercial Code modernised Turkish company law, introducing single-shareholder companies, independent audit requirements for larger entities, and stronger corporate governance rules. Minimum capital is set by statute and was raised in 2024. Registration proceeds through MERSIS, the central trade registry system, and can be completed quickly. The Foreign Direct Investment Law establishes national treatment for foreign investors and free transfer of profits, and there is no general screening requirement. Free zones and the technology development zones offer tax and customs advantages for qualifying activity.