Open a Company in the Fishing Sector in Turkey

With more than 8,000 km in length, the Turkish costal line offers access to one of the most prolific industries in this country: fishing. In the last several years, the number of investors setting up business in the fishing sector in Turkey has increased considerably, based on the requirements of the local and international market for fish products.

Foreign entrepreneurs who want to open a company in Turkey, can safely choose the fishing industry with one of its branches. Among these branches, aquaculture or fish farming is one of the most appreciated at this moment.

Our company formation agents in Turkey can explain the legislation related to starting a fishing business in this country.

Company registration in the fishing industry in Turkey

The first steps to create a company in the Turkish fishing sector imply to prepare a solid business plan and register one of the structures provided by the Commercial Code. Following that, the business owner must purchase and register the fishing vessels and apply for the necessary licenses and authorizations which will enable the company to start its activities.

Our Turkish company formation consultants can guide you through the registration procedure of a fishing business.

Licensing of fishing companies in Turkey

In order to be allowed to fish in the national waters, a fishing company in Turkey must first obtain a license with the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock. The same ministry will authorize fishing companies carrying their activities in the waters of other countries. The commercial fishing license has a validity period of 2 years.

Fishermen working on commercial fishing boats must be registered with the ministry and obtain a license which has a 5-year validity period.

Turkish fishing companies must also obtain special authorizations for one of the following activities:

• -          fishing during prohibition periods;
• -          carrying out research activities;
• -          fishing with electroshocks, bottom-trawling or electricity;
• -          fishing in restricted areas;
• -          anchovy fishing.

For full information on the requirements for starting a fishing company in Turkey, please contact us. You can also rely on us for assistance with the company formation procedure in Turkey.