TBMM's Proposed Law Could Bring Booking.com Back to Turkey: Advantages and Risks for Domestic Firms

A bill proposed to the Turkish Parliament could allow Booking.com and other international digital accommodation platforms to resume operations in Turkey. According to the bill, companies would be required to register as tax entities in Turkey, pay taxes on their earnings, and contribute 5% of their revenue to the Turkey Tourism Promotion and Development Agency. Additionally, foreign platforms would need to establish offices in Turkey and obtain a two-year renewable business license. The bill would reduce the commission rate for international platforms from 20% (for domestic firms) to 17%. Companies would also be required to ensure the transparency of their algorithms and avoid steps that could dominate the market. While this could provide a competitive advantage for Turkey's national tourism sector, it also raises concerns about increased control by foreign platforms in the country.