Sustainable Tourism to Give Turkey a Competitive Edge on the Global Stage

Preparing Turkey for the Future of Global Tourism

In a recent statement, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Nadir Alpaslan emphasized that Turkey’s ongoing efforts in implementing the “Sustainable Tourism Program” will give the country a significant competitive advantage in the global tourism market.

Speaking during one of Antalya’s busiest tourism periods, Alpaslan shared the government’s ambitious goals for another record-breaking year in Turkish tourism. He highlighted that significant efforts are being made to further enhance the country’s already strong tourism potential.

One of the key elements in this effort is the Sustainable Tourism Program, which Turkey is implementing in collaboration with internationally accredited institutions. Alpaslan noted that all accommodation facilities across the country will be integrated into the program in phases, ensuring wide-scale participation and commitment.

As part of this initiative, Side Ancient City in Antalya will be included in a sustainable certification program for entire destinations. By 2030, the goal is to implement this model across the entire country.

Sustainability: A Vital Component in Tourism’s Future

Addressing the growing impact of climate change, Alpaslan pointed out the increasing importance of sustainability in the tourism industry. He stated:

“In the future, environmental awareness and sustainability will become critical. As global tourism competition increasingly centers around sustainability, we’re laying the groundwork now. Our goal is to prepare Turkey for the future of tourism. Sustainable tourism will give Turkish tourism a strategic advantage. We’ve long needed this edge in the competitive landscape. By meeting all the sustainability criteria, we’ll become a leading country in this field. Tourists will increasingly prioritize destinations aligned with these values. We’re fully committed to fulfilling our obligations under the 2053 Paris Climate Agreement through this program — and we’ll do it consistently, without compromise.”

Tourism in All 81 Provinces, Across All Four Seasons

Alpaslan also underlined their mission to extend tourism throughout the entire year and across all regions of Turkey. He explained that Turkey’s wealth of historical, natural, cultural, highland, and gastronomic attractions gives the country a strong foundation for year-round, nationwide tourism.

For Turkey to meet its long-term tourism goals, Alpaslan stressed the importance of spreading tourism to all 81 provinces. As part of this effort, the Turkish Tourism Promotion and Development Agency has launched provincial promotional programs, designed to unlock the unique potential of each region.

Working through provincial tourism directorates, stakeholders are being brought together to develop tailored strategies for local tourism growth. According to Alpaslan, these efforts are already bearing fruit.

“This is an important shift. Alongside the classic sun-sea-sand model, we’re expanding into cultural, health, congress, thermal, and winter tourism. Our goal is to diversify and enrich Turkey’s tourism offerings.”

“In line with this vision, comprehensive tourism master plans are being prepared for every province in the country.”