Turkey has established a Marine Spatial Planning Coordination Board, a new decision-making body expected to play a role in determining suitable locations for marina investments and accelerating related projects. The move was formalised in the Official Gazette in July 2025.
According to Marinakedisi, the board is not exclusively dedicated to marina planning, but is also anticipated to influence the sector by accelerating processes and ensuring projects are environmentally and strategically aligned. All key ministries with responsibilities over maritime, environmental, infrastructure and tourism matters are represented, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change; Energy and Natural Resources; Interior; Culture and Tourism; National Defence; Agriculture and Forestry; and Transport and Infrastructure. The Secretary General of the Presidency will also participate.
The board, under the vice president, will coordinate marine use across Turkey’s coastal waters, evaluate environmental impacts of sea-based activities and safeguard maritime jurisdiction areas and rights. Its duties include developing or commissioning core strategies and action plans, as well as monitoring their implementation.
The board will meet every six months, but the chair may call additional sessions if necessary. Representatives from universities, non-governmental organisations, professional associations, research bodies and the private sector may be invited to contribute.
The establishment of the Marine Spatial Planning Coordination Board marks a centralised approach to managing Turkey’s marine resources. While its remit covers a broad range of maritime issues, its anticipated impact on marina planning is seen as a notable development for coastal investment strategies.
