A new chapter in the economic crisis: Sharp rise in the number of companies closing down

Newly released statistics have shed light on entrepreneurship trends in Turkey. In February 2026, the number of newly established companies fell by 15.1 percent compared to the previous month, dropping to 9,432. During the same period, the number of companies closing down saw a slight increase of 1.1 percent, reaching 1,621.

When compared to February of last year, there was a 3.3 percent increase in the number of newly established companies and a 5.8 percent decrease in the number of companies closing down. However, on a monthly basis, the number of new companies opened was only five times the number of those that closed. Experts believe this situation reflects a cautious approach to entrepreneurship.

TRADE, CONSTRUCTION, AND MANUFACTURING AT THE FOREFRONT

Looking at the distribution of the 9,581 total companies and cooperatives established in February 2026, the sector with the most activity was wholesale and retail trade. In this field, 3,283 new companies began operations. In the construction sector, 1,504 sole proprietorships and companies were established, while 1,163 new companies began operations in the manufacturing sector.

On a regional map, while no new company establishments were recorded only in Ardahan and Bayburt, it was observed that 37.8 percent of new businesses were established in Istanbul.

WOMEN AND YOUTH FIND MORE SPACE IN NEW BUSINESSES

The data indicates that women's entrepreneurship is increasing at high rates, especially in cooperatives. Women entrepreneurs accounted for 24.7 percent of the new cooperatives established in 2026. This rate was determined to be 16 percent for limited liability companies and 15.4 percent for joint-stock companies.

By age group, it is noted that the 35-44 age range is the most active segment in starting a business. Specifically for limited liability companies, the 25-34 age group has a remarkable representation power with a rate of 31.9 percent.

SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN FOREIGN CAPITAL

Of the 804 companies established with foreign partnership capital, 47 percent belong to partners of Syrian origin. Additionally, it was recorded that 38 companies began operations with Iranian partners. The capital share created by foreign capital in the total number of established companies was reported as 85.1 percent.

JANUARY-FEBRUARY PERIOD TABLE

In the first two months of 2026, a total of 20,547 new companies were established. This figure represents a 1.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The number of companies closing down decreased by 12.2 percent, remaining at the level of 3,225. This balance sheet was evaluated as an indicator of resilience in entrepreneurship despite challenging economic conditions.

Economists describe these released figures as evidence that the cautious atmosphere in the business world continues. While the decline in entrepreneurial appetite is explained by the impact of uncertainty and risk factors in various sectors, the rise in companies with women and foreign capital stands out as an important momentum.