In Turkey, a new “Regulation on Shipping Agencies” has entered into force, updating the operational principles, financial requirements, and staff qualification standards for shipping agency activities.
The regulation, prepared by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, aims to improve service quality and transparency in the maritime sector, as well as ensure alignment with international standards.
Under the new framework, shipping agencies operating in Turkey are classified into three categories—A, B, and C—based on their scope of authority and operations. Stricter requirements have also been introduced for agencies providing services in the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits.
The minimum capital requirements for companies are set at 5 million TRY for Class A, 1 million TRY for Class B, and 500,000 TRY for Class C.
In addition, training, examination, and certification procedures for industry personnel have been revised, with mandatory periodic renewal of licenses and the introduction of digital inspection systems.
Published in the Official Gazette dated May 14, 2026, some provisions of the regulation entered into force immediately, while others will be implemented within three months. The previous 2012 regulation has been fully repealed.
