Türkiye to Require Tech Giants to Open Local Offices by 2026
Türkiye is introducing a new regulation that will require major international social media companies such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, and YouTube to establish local legal entities in the country.
Türkiye’s Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA or BTK) has unveiled a new draft regulation targeting social media platforms. The draft, which outlines several new rules, mandates that social media giants like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), WhatsApp, and YouTube must establish local companies within Türkiye.
The draft, titled “Electronic Communication Sector Authorization Regulation,” has been published on ICTA’s website for public feedback. Stakeholders and the public have until April 28, to submit their opinions and suggestions.
According to a draft, these platforms will need to obtain permission and establish a company in Türkiye by January 1, 2026, in order to continue operating. Failure to comply could result in access bans on national security grounds.
The regulation aims to enhance oversight of digital services, enforce data protection, and ensure compliance with local content regulations.
