Istanbul: The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) invested £1.2 billion ($1.4 billion) in Trkiye during the initial half of 2026, with expectations that the annual investment will mirror last year's record levels, according to EBRD Vice President Matteo Patrone.
According to Anadolu Agency, Patrone highlighted that 2025 marked a record year for the EBRD in Trkiye, with £2.7 billion invested over 54 operations. He expressed optimism about the continuation of robust investment in 2026, noting a strong pipeline for the remainder of the year. Despite operating in a volatile environment, the bank maintains its focus on supporting Ukraine's economy and crisis-response measures linked to the Middle East.
The EBRD has invested over £10 billion in Ukraine since the onset of the war with Russia. Patrone emphasized the bank's crisis response package, which targets both directly and indirectly affected countries, including Trkiye, Egypt, and the Caucasus. In Trkiye, the EBRD is concentrating on liquidity lines for vulnerable companies and long-term financing for investment projects lacking alternative funding sources.
Patrone acknowledged the unpredictability of the current crisis and its impact on Trkiye's economy, particularly concerning energy costs and inflation. The bank remains in dialogue with clients to offer support through liquidity and financing solutions where capital markets fall short.
Trkiye's potential as a nearshoring destination in global supply chains was highlighted by Patrone, who cited ongoing industrial joint ventures in sectors such as automotive and durable goods. Trkiye's significant role as a nearshoring destination is already evident, according to Patrone.
Recently, the EBRD signed a transaction with Tersan Group to enhance Trkiye's logistics capabilities sustainably. Furthermore, the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya is expected to spotlight the Turkish Industrial Decarbonization Platform (TIDIP), aiming to mobilize £5 billion in investments for energy efficiency and decarbonization projects.
Patrone noted that Trkiye is now in a more resilient position despite external pressures, including the Middle East crisis. He attributed this resilience to effective economic policies that have stabilized the real economy and managed inflation, though acknowledging that external pressures may prolong the disinflationary trend. Nonetheless, he expressed confidence in the strength and positive direction of the disinflationary efforts.