The Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also known as ATSO, is one of Turkey’s largest and oldest business organizations. Founded in 1882, it represents around 70,000 members across key sectors, including tourism, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, yacht building, transportation, and education. The Chamber plays a pivotal role in driving Antalya’s economy, supporting entrepreneurs, and fostering international cooperation. In this interview with its President, Mr. Yusuf Hacisüleyman, we explore the institution’s mission: strengthening local businesses, advising on economic and trade policies, promoting Antalya on the global stage, and encouraging sustainable growth and digital transformation among SMEs. The conversation also highlights Antalya’s dynamic economic development and its outstanding investment opportunities. Today, Antalya stands as Türkiye’s second most attractive destination for foreign investment, after Istanbul.
Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most dynamic economic regions. What are the key factors behind this success?
Antalya’s strong economic growth is fueled by its vibrant, diverse population and strategic location. Its rising popularity among digital nomads and IT firms is supported by a favorable climate and modern infrastructure. As a prominent hub for tourism and agriculture in Türkiye, Antalya offers a broad spectrum of services, including medical tourism, cultural activities, sports, MICE, culinary tourism, rural experiences, and weddings. This variety not only attracts visitors but also stimulates growth in related industries such as agriculture, food processing, furniture, natural stones, construction, and manufacturing. Additionally, Antalya is globally recognized for its yacht manufacturing and related services. The city’s interconnected trade and industry network continuously drives its development, positioning it as a key regional center and a vital partner in international economic collaborations.
How has your institution contributed to this success? What is the Chamber’s key role in shaping the region’s economic development and business environment?
As the oldest and largest business organisation in Antalya, our Chamber has been instrumental in supporting the city’s economic development and fostering collaboration both nationally and internationally. We function as a streamlined, one-stop platform for entrepreneurs – whether local or foreign – seeking to establish or grow their businesses. Through a wide range of member-oriented services, we offer guidance, support, and resources designed to help our members reach their full potential. Our continuous efforts are focused on cultivating a dynamic and resilient business environment that drives regional progress and reinforces Antalya’s status as a vital economic hub.
What companies and economic sectors does your Chamber represent?
Our Chamber serves as a comprehensive platform for a wide range of industries and economic sectors. With a member base of approximately 70-thousand-member companies, we represent the diverse business landscape of Antalya. Our members vary greatly in size, from small microenterprises to large multinational companies, demonstrating the breadth and richness of our local business ecosystem.
How is ATSO preparing its members for the green transition and digital economy?
Currently, within the scope of the European Enterprise Network Project, we are providing consultancy services to our member companies engaged in export activities in our region. These services are intended to help businesses achieve sustainability goals in line with United Nations guidelines, while also supporting them in improving their innovation processes and adopting digital technologies to update their products, services, and solutions. We have recently been authorized by TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye) to implement the Green Innovation Technology Program. Through this initiative, we have established a mentoring pool comprising 19 experienced members, including industry experts, academics, and Chamber staff, who will support SMEs in their green innovation transformation over the next six months.
Additionally, with our “Sustainability and Biodiversity” Project – an initiative that will be implemented for the first time in our country and for which our chamber has applied as the executing body of the European Union – we aim to organise introductory and awareness-raising activities on climate technologies for primary, middle, and high school students.
As the oldest and largest business organisation in Antalya, our Chamber has been instrumental in supporting the city’s economic development and fostering collaboration both nationally and internationally. We function as a streamlined, one-stop platform for entrepreneurs seeking to establish or grow their businesses
Antalya is a global tourism hub. How does the Chamber work with local authorities, businesses, and international partners to foster sustainable tourism in Antalya?
I am committed to maintaining and elevating Antalya’s reputation as a premier global destination for tourism. To achieve this goal, we work closely with local authorities and businesses, fostering strong partnerships with both domestic and international stakeholders. We actively seek collaboration opportunities and also take the initiative to develop projects and activities that promote sustainable tourism practices. Additionally, my role as the President of Antalya Convention Bureau provides us with a strategic platform to coordinate efforts and advance our shared goals for the city’s sustainable growth in the tourism sector.
How does the Chamber contribute to promoting entrepreneurship, investment and innovation in the region?
The Chamber actively contributes to fostering entrepreneurship, attracting investment, and encouraging innovation in the region through a range of programs and services. We provide detailed market analysis and consultancy services to assist local companies in expanding their international reach and entering new markets. We also help prospective foreign investors to gain an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework in Türkiye. Additionally, we organize a range of projects, events, and training programs designed to nurture entrepreneurial spirit, encourage investment, and stimulate innovative practices. One of our key contributions is serving as an intermediary organization for the EU-funded Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Programme. In this capacity, we support entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs in establishing cross-border business collaborations across Europe. We also oversee exchanges to ensure compliance with EU regulations, while actively fostering international networks, expanding market access, and strengthening long-term cooperation.
How do partnerships with international Chambers -such as the Hispano-Turkish Chamber of Commerce- contribute to Antalya’s global visibility?
Our Chamber has more than 30 cooperation agreements with chambers around the world, spanning four continents. We also work closely with several Mediterranean Chambers, including those from Spain, Italy, Egypt, and Tunisia. Our proactive and collaborative approach has helped us become a reliable partner in their initiatives, which in turn boosts Antalya’s profile internationally. We have a robust and active collaboration with the Turkish-Spanish Chamber of Commerce. Recently, we arranged a delegation trip to Spain that included over a hundred members of our Chamber Assembly, aiming to explore potential areas of cooperation. Another good example of our partnerships is with the Izmir Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Izmir Italian CCI). One of the roles of our Foreign Affairs Department is acting as the Antalya representative of Izmir Italian CCI. These partnerships are crucial for creating new opportunities and highlighting Antalya’s strengths on the global stage.
What opportunities do you see for Antalya to position itself as a gateway for Mediterranean trade and investment?
Antalya’s global reputation as Türkiye’s tourism capital and a premier destination for international events provides a strong foundation for expanding its role in Mediterranean trade and investment. Our city’s successful hosting of high-profile gatherings like the G20 Summit and the Antalya Diplomacy Forum demonstrates our capacity to attract and facilitate international dialogue and cooperation. With its advanced infrastructure, strategic geographical position, and vibrant, diverse society, Antalya is uniquely positioned to serve as a bridge between different markets. We can leverage these strengths to attract foreign investment, foster regional collaborations that connect Mediterranean countries more effectively.
Antalya's global reputation as Türkiye’s tourism capital and a premier destination for international events provides a strong foundation for expanding its role in Mediterranean trade and investment. Antalya is uniquely positioned to serve as a bridge between different markets
How can ASCAME and ATSO work together to amplify the Mediterranean private sector’s voice in Europe and beyond?
I believe that collaboration between ASCAME and ATSO can significantly enhance the voice of the Mediterranean private sector both in Europe and globally. Our Chamber has extensive experience in organising trade delegations and actively welcomes requests for international buyer delegations. I am convinced that facilitating B2B events, participating in trade fairs, and hosting targeted trade missions are highly effective strategies for advancing commercial diplomacy and fostering meaningful business connections across the region and beyond.
What are your main priorities as president for the next few years?
My main priorities include developing and implementing long-term strategic plans that support the sustainable growth of Antalya. We aim to initiate and realize visionary projects that will enhance the region’s economic prospects. Additionally, we recognize the importance of adapting to emerging trends such as green technologies, innovative solutions, and artificial intelligence, which are crucial for driving future growth and competitiveness. Our focus is on positioning Antalya as a forward-looking, resilient, and sustainable economic hub.
How do you assess the new chapter ASCAME is opening with the renewal of its presidency and bureau?
I want to start by congratulating ASCAME on this new chapter with Mr. Josep Santacreu leading the organisation. I also want to extend my congratulations to the new Board of Directors and sincerely thank the previous president, Mr. Ahmed M. El Wakil, for his valuable leadership and contributions. This change comes at an exciting time, especially with the momentum from the Barcelona Declaration for Mediterranean Economic Development. Launched in collaboration with key regional organizations, it outlines a series of initiatives aimed at boosting cooperation, innovation, and sustainable growth in the region. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Barcelona Process, reminding us of the importance of turning the private sector into an active driver of inclusive growth, job creation, and regional integration. The European Commission’s recent Mediterranean Pact further supports this vision by focusing on clean energy, investments, and regional projects that support youth, women, and small businesses.
How do you imagine the future of the Mediterranean?
I envision the future of the Mediterranean as a more interconnected and thriving region, driven by collaborative efforts at both national and international levels. Organizations such as ASCAME and Chambers will play an increasingly vital role in fostering cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development, helping to unlock new opportunities and ensure long-term prosperity for all communities in the area.
In your opinion, how can Mediterranean countries and Chambers work together to shape a prosperous and sustainable future for the region?
From my perspective, Mediterranean countries and Chambers can enhance their collaboration by prioritizing the exchange of innovative and best practices. Additionally, organizing regular B2B networking opportunities and trade events is essential, as these activities promote partnerships, facilitate knowledge sharing, and encourage joint initiatives that contribute to regional prosperity and sustainability.