iGN, in collaboration with experts from OnlyFacts, a new Russian-language database from our friends at 4H Agency, is launching a series where we will analyze regulation, payment infrastructure, marketing opportunities, local features, and key risks in major GEOs. The first issue focuses on Turkey. Here are the key insights from iGN:
Market Volume and Economy:
$1.12 billion โ GGR in 2024 (estimate by 4H)
$1.3 trillion โ country GDP
85 million โ population
According to OnlyFacts, the market potential is high, but a significant portion of demand is shifting to the offshore segment due to extremely limited legal regulation.
Legal Status:
State monopoly on betting and lotteries
Online casinos are banned
Licenses cannot be obtained; market participation is only possible through offshore models
The industry is regulated by the outdated Law 7258 from 1959
Key regulators include the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Finance Ministry's Anti-Money Laundering Unit (MASAK).
Payment Infrastructure and Promotion:
The main payment method is bank transfers, particularly the local Havale system.
Fees for incoming payments start at 4%.
Social media and influencers are the most effective promotion channels.
Key Brands (Monopolies):
Iddaa โ state monopoly on fixed-odds betting
TJK e-Bayi โ operator for horse racing bets from the Turkish Jockey Club
Milli Piyango โ national lottery operator.
OnlyFacts Recommendations:
Approach Turkey with high caution, rather than as a primary jurisdiction for scaling.
Plan a reliable payment infrastructure in advance.
Be extremely careful with marketing and public promotion.
Consider the risks of blockages, frequent changes in operational tools, complications in operational processes, and adaptation costs.
OnlyFacts offers detailed analytics on 25 GEOs, with new countries added regularly. Free trial access to the database is available, and using the promo code ign10 provides a 10% discount on subscriptions.