Turkey offers comprehensive government support programs for companies participating in overseas trade fairs to boost exports. Companies that effectively use these supports can cover a large portion of their fair costs through government funding. This guide covers the Ministry of Trade, KOSGEB, and TİM programs in detail, including application processes and key points to watch out for.
Ministry of Trade Overseas Fair Support
The Ministry of Trade's overseas fair support is the most comprehensive and widely used support program for Turkish exporters. Supported expenses under this program include:
Stand rental and construction/decoration: Stand space rented at overseas fairs and decoration expenses for that space are supported. For individual participation, support is provided for up to 25 square meters per stand.
Shipping expenses: Transportation costs for samples, machinery, and equipment transported for the fair are covered. International shipping, insurance, and customs expenses can be included.
Promotion and advertising expenses: Printing and production costs for brochures, catalogs, posters, and digital promotional materials prepared specifically for the fair are supported.
Travel expenses: Airfare and accommodation expenses for fair visits, limited to a specified number of people per company, may be included in the support scope.
Support Rates and Upper Limits
Support rates vary depending on company size and type of participation:
Participation within national participation organization: Companies participating in national participation organizations organized by the Ministry of Trade or exporters' associations benefit from higher support rates compared to individual participation. The support rate can range from 50% to 75% of total expenses.
Individual participation: For fairs attended through the company's own organization, the support rate is generally around 50%. This may vary by sector and country.
SME advantage: Support rates for small and medium-sized enterprises are generally set higher. SME-status companies can also benefit from additional supports.
Application Process
1. Pre-Registration and Approval
To benefit from overseas fair support, you must apply to the Ministry of Trade or the affiliated exporters' association before attending the fair. Applications cannot be made after attending the fair — this is one of the most common mistakes. Complete the pre-application as early as possible, preferably at least 2 months before the fair.
