Commercial Law in Turkey: Business Contracts and Corporate Transactions

Commercial law in Turkey for foreign companies

Turkey’s robust economy and strategic location offer major opportunities for international businesses. However, navigating commercial law in Turkey requires a detailed understanding of local regulations, contract law, and corporate governance. At ER&GUN&ER Turkish Law Firm, our English-speaking Turkish lawyers guide foreign companies through complex business transactions and legal compliance issues with expertise and precision.

Key Aspects of Commercial Law in Turkey

  • Turkish Commercial Code (TCC): Governs companies, commercial contracts, negotiable instruments, and bankruptcy matters.
  • Corporate Structuring: Joint stock companies (A.Ş.), limited liability companies (Ltd. Şti.), and branch offices.
  • Business Contracts: Drafting and negotiation of contracts including supply, distribution, franchising, and agency agreements.
  • Corporate Governance: Shareholder meetings, board resolutions, and compliance obligations.
  • Commercial Litigation: Handling business disputes through Turkish courts or arbitration.

Common Corporate Transactions Handled Under Turkish Law

  • Share purchase and sale agreements
  • Joint venture agreements
  • Asset transfer and acquisition transactions
  • Commercial lease agreements
  • Distribution and agency agreements

Risks Foreign Companies Must Watch in Commercial Deals

  • Ambiguous or poorly drafted commercial contracts
  • Unclear dispute resolution clauses
  • Failure to meet regulatory licensing or reporting obligations
  • Tax and customs compliance issues in cross-border transactions
  • Inadequate due diligence before mergers or acquisitions

Why Work with an English-Speaking Turkish Corporate Lawyer?

  • Drafting and reviewing bilingual commercial contracts
  • Advising on corporate structuring and business formation
  • Negotiating and closing cross-border deals
  • Protecting foreign investors through strong legal safeguards
  • Representing companies in Turkish commercial courts and arbitration tribunals

Internal Link: Related Business Legal Services

Learn more about setting up your company in Turkey:
👉 Setting Up a Branch Office in Turkey

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can foreign companies sign contracts governed by Turkish law? Yes. Contracts between foreign companies and Turkish entities can be governed by Turkish law and enforceable in Turkish courts.
  • Is it necessary to have a Turkish version of business contracts? For court enforcement purposes, a Turkish translation is highly recommended.
  • Do Turkish courts accept arbitration clauses? Yes. Arbitration clauses are recognized and enforced under Turkish law.
  • Can foreign investors own 100% of Turkish companies? Yes. Foreigners can fully own Turkish companies without local partners.
  • What are the best company types for foreign investors in Turkey? Joint Stock Company (A.Ş.) and Limited Liability Company (Ltd. Şti.) are the most common structures.
  • Why ER&GUN&ER? Because we are a leading Turkish law firm specializing in commercial law, corporate transactions, and cross-border business services for foreign investors.

If your company is planning to engage in commercial transactions in Turkey, trust ER&GUN&ER Law Firm for strategic, bilingual, and full-service legal support to ensure your business success.