20.6 Final thoughts
The bioeconomy of Turkey presents a complex landscape where sustainable utilization of renewable biological resources plays a crucial role in various sectors. While the nation has made significant strides in some areas, there remains a need for more comprehensive strategies and initiatives to fully harness the potential of the bioeconomy. Turkey’s total GDP has been on the rise, but challenges, such as high inflation, persist. The country holds a significant place in the world economy by both nominal and PPP GDP measures. However, there is a clear need for effective strategies to support this growth and ensure the prosperity of the Turkish population. In the context of the bioeconomy, Turkey’s agriculture sector contributes substantially to the nation’s economy. The 6.8% contribution to the GDP in 2022 highlights the importance of crop production. The bioeconomy is intricately linked to agriculture, and it is essential that modern and sustainable agricultural practices continue to evolve to ensure long-term food security and environmental sustainability. Turkey’s vast forested areas, covering 23 million hectares, present an opportunity for the forestry sector to thrive. However, the economic contribution of forestry to the government’s treasury lags behind, indicating a need for more effective management and utilization of forest resources. The fishing industry in Turkey has seen significant growth, with production increasing by 6.2% in 2022. Fisheries contribute to the bioeconomy by providing a source of food and economic value, emphasizing the importance of sustainable fishing practices. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors are integral components of the bioeconomy, with notable advancements in Turkey’s pharmaceutical industry. Encouraging continued growth and innovation in these sectors can contribute significantly to the bioeconomy. Bioenergy and biofuels play a vital role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change. Turkey has a substantial biofuel production capacity, which can further reduce fossil fuel dependency and support sustainable energy practices. The government of Turkey has taken initiatives to promote the bioeconomy and biotechnology, with a focus on modernizing the agricultural sector and investing in research and development. The “Bioeconomy-Biotech Vision of Turkey” outlines the nation’s aspirations and strategies for the development of these sectors. This vision is a step in the right direction, emphasizing the significance of bioeconomy and biotechnology for sustainable economic growth, technological advancement, and environmental protection. Turkey’s bioeconomy has significant potential, and with the right strategies and government support, it can drive sustainable economic growth, technological innovation, and environmental protection. Turkey should continue to invest in its bioeconomy and harness its biological resources efficiently to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future. Besides all these, the Turkish government should create a strong Vision Plan and strategies to strengthen its bioeconomy.