Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Drug Type (Branded Drugs, Generic Drugs), By Product Type (Prescription Drugs, Over-The-Counter Drugs), By Application (Oncology, Metabolic Disorder, Cardiovascular, Anti-infective, Musculoskeletal, Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, E-Pharmacy), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Turkey Pharmaceuticals market was valued at USD 9.10 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 15.35 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.96%. The Turkey pharmaceuticals market is a vital and fast-growing segment of the country’s healthcare industry. Supported by a large and diverse population, an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and rising healthcare investments, the pharmaceutical sector is instrumental in advancing Turkey’s public health goals and contributing to economic growth.

This market is dynamic and strategically significant, characterized by robust growth, continuously evolving regulatory frameworks, and changing consumer demands. It presents substantial opportunities for both domestic manufacturers and multinational corporations seeking to leverage Turkey’s expanding healthcare ecosystem.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Population and Aging Demographics

The expanding population and aging demographics in Turkey serve as two of the most influential macroeconomic drivers shaping the country’s pharmaceuticals market. Turkey is undergoing a demographic shift toward an aging population, with the median age rising from 32.0 in 2018 to 34.0 in 2023, and projected to reach 35.6 by 2030, according to current forecasts. These trends directly contribute to increased demand for healthcare services and pharmaceutical products, thereby creating substantial growth opportunities across therapeutic segments. Turkey’s population grew by 92,824 over the past year, reaching a total of 85.37 million in 2023, according to official reports. This demographic expansion significantly enlarges the total addressable market (TAM) for pharmaceutical companies.

As more individuals gain access to healthcare services particularly through government-backed universal health coverage (SGK) the consumption of both prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medications rises proportionately. Urbanization is increasing, leading to greater exposure to healthcare facilities and pharmacies. A younger population segment is contributing to rising demand for preventive care, nutraceuticals, and wellness products, further broadening the scope of the market.

Turkey’s median age is rising due to improvements in life expectancy and declining birth rates. A growing proportion of the population is now over the age of 60, a demographic shift that has profound implications for pharmaceutical demand: Older adults are more prone to chronic and non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. These conditions require continuous pharmacological treatment, often involving complex medication regimens.

Aging patients often consume multiple medications simultaneously a trend known as polypharmacy which naturally drives up the volume of pharmaceutical products consumed per capita. As patients live longer, they require medications for extended periods, increasing the lifetime value (LTV) of each patient from a pharmaceutical sales perspective. As the population ages and healthcare needs grow more complex, there is increased pressure on hospitals and public health systems. This dynamic encourages: Greater reliance on pharmaceutical solutions as cost-effective alternatives to hospitalization and invasive procedures. Increased public sector procurement of essential medicines and chronic care drugs through government tenders and public-private partnerships.

Pharmaceutical companies are actively recalibrating their strategies to align with these demographic shifts: Product Portfolios are being expanded to include geriatric-specific formulations, fixed-dose combinations for chronic disease management, and biologics tailored to age-related diseases. Targeted Marketing and awareness campaigns are being developed for elder care medications. R&D Investments are being channeled into age-related disease areas, reflecting future demand projections.

Rising Incidence of Chronic and Lifestyle Diseases

The increasing prevalence of chronic and lifestyle-related diseases represents a significant and sustained growth driver for the Turkey pharmaceuticals market. A population-based survey in Turkey reported a chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence of 15.7%, with incidence rates increasing significantly with age. CKD is closely linked to a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, highlighting its strong association with other major chronic health conditions.

Turkey, like many middle-income economies, is experiencing a marked epidemiological transition. Infectious diseases have been largely brought under control, while non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and respiratory illnesses—are now the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for approximately 87% of all deaths in Turkey. This transition has transformed healthcare priorities and increased reliance on pharmaceutical therapies for disease management and prevention. Turkey has undergone rapid urbanization over the past three decades, with its urban population nearly doubling to exceed 50 million. This urban expansion has been a significant catalyst for economic growth, positioning several Turkish cities among the most dynamic and economically vibrant globally.

Rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary shifts—such as increased consumption of processed foods—are directly contributing to the rise in lifestyle-related illnesses. The following factors play a pivotal role: Smoking and alcohol use, still prevalent in parts of the population, contribute to the burden of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Stress and poor sleep hygiene, particularly in urban centers, are associated with increased cases of hypertension, anxiety, and metabolic syndromes. These behavioral shifts are leading to earlier onset of chronic illnesses and expanding the pharmaceutical treatment window, even among younger adults.

Chronic diseases are characterized by their long duration and slow progression, requiring: Continuous medication regimens, often for life. Combination therapies, where multiple drugs are prescribed to manage comorbid conditions (e.g., diabetes + hypertension). Patient adherence tools, such as fixed-dose combinations and controlled-release formulations, which are driving innovation and growth in product portfolios. This sustained demand leads to recurring revenue streams for pharmaceutical manufacturers and increases patient lifetime value (LTV) from a commercial perspective.

The Turkish government has intensified its focus on tackling chronic diseases through: Preventive screening programs (e.g., for diabetes and cancer), which are leading to earlier diagnoses and increased initiation of pharmacological treatments. National health campaigns promoting medication adherence and lifestyle changes, which help expand the pharmaceutical customer base. Subsidized treatment programs under SGK (Social Security Institution), which reduce out-of-pocket costs for chronic care medications and encourage long-term use.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

Pricing and Reimbursement Constraints

Turkey’s pharmaceutical pricing system is strictly regulated by the government, primarily through the reference pricing model and the fixed euro-to-Turkish lira exchange rate, which is often set significantly below market value. While these controls aim to ensure affordability and protect public health budgets, they pose several commercial challenges for pharmaceutical companies.

Price ceilings limit the profitability of both innovative and generic medicines, discouraging foreign investment and reducing incentives for launching new drugs in the Turkish market. Multinational companies often postpone or avoid introducing new treatments due to unattractive pricing policies and lengthy reimbursement processes. The use of a fixed exchange rate in pricing—while the lira continues to depreciate—results in financial losses for companies that import active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or finished products.

This creates an environment of financial uncertainty, limiting the ability of pharmaceutical firms to reinvest in R&D, supply chain expansion, and high-quality talent.

Regulatory Delays and Market Access Barriers

Although Turkey has made progress in aligning its pharmaceutical regulations with European standards, companies continue to face significant administrative and regulatory hurdles. These include long timelines for market authorization, complex documentation requirements, and slow updates to the reimbursement list.

The average duration for drug registration and reimbursement approval can stretch to 18–24 months, affecting the availability of critical therapies. Navigating multiple agencies—such as the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (TİTCK) and the Social Security Institution (SGK)—can delay decision-making and resource allocation.

While Turkey has potential as a clinical trial destination, regulatory delays and limited infrastructure restrict the expansion of early-stage research and innovation activities. These barriers limit operational efficiency and time-sensitive product strategies, particularly for companies focused on high-value or specialty pharmaceuticals.

Key Market Trends

Localization and Strengthening of Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

In recent years, the Turkish government has prioritized domestic production of pharmaceutical products to reduce import dependency, increase self-sufficiency, and strengthen national healthcare security. This initiative is part of Turkey’s broader industrial strategy to boost local innovation and reduce foreign currency outflows.

Tax breaks, subsidies, and regulatory support are being offered to companies investing in local manufacturing facilities and research. A requirement for certain products on the reimbursement list to be produced locally has increased domestic manufacturing volume, particularly in generics and selected biologics. International firms are encouraged to partner with Turkish companies to transfer production capabilities and develop local expertise.

Expansion of domestic manufacturing improves supply chain resilience and cost efficiency. It creates long-term value for both local players and multinational companies through contract manufacturing, in-licensing deals, and public-private partnerships. Supports Turkey’s ambition to become a regional pharmaceutical production and export hub, especially for MENA and Eastern Europe.

Rapid Growth of Biopharmaceuticals and Biosimilars

As demand for targeted, high-value therapies increases—particularly in areas such as oncology, autoimmune diseases, and rare disorders—biopharmaceuticals are gaining momentum in Turkey. Additionally, the rising cost of original biologic drugs has opened a significant market for biosimilars.

Increased prevalence of chronic and complex diseases is driving demand for biologics. The Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (TİTCK) has introduced guidelines to facilitate the approval of biosimilars and accelerate market access. Reimbursement for certain high-cost biologics and biosimilars through SGK improves accessibility and drives volume.

Companies investing in biotechnology R&D, clinical trials, and local biosimilar production are well-positioned to lead future growth. This trend presents opportunities for high-margin revenue streams, especially for firms capable of delivering cost-effective alternatives to originator biologics. Enhanced focus on biosimilars also supports long-term sustainability of healthcare spending in Turkey.

Segmental Insights

Drug Type Insights

Based on the category of Drug Type, the Generic Drugs segment emerged as the fastest growing segment in the Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market in 2024. The Turkish government, through institutions such as the Social Security Institution (SGK) and the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (TİTCK), has implemented pricing and reimbursement strategies that directly promote the use of generics.

Prices for all pharmaceutical products, including originators, are capped based on the lowest price in selected European markets, which favors low-cost generic alternatives. Pharmacists are encouraged or in some cases, required to dispense generic versions of prescribed medications when available. SGK prioritizes the inclusion of cost-effective generics on its reimbursement list to manage public healthcare expenditures. These measures create a highly favorable policy environment for the expansion and consumption of generics across both public and private healthcare sectors.

Generic drugs account for a significant share of total pharmaceutical sales in Turkey, particularly in high-volume therapeutic areas such as: Cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes and metabolic disorders, Respiratory conditions, Central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Due to chronic disease prevalence and long-term treatment needs, generic drugs offer an accessible and sustainable solution for both patients and healthcare providers. In value terms, while generics may generate lower margins per unit, they capture a large portion of overall market revenues due to their high utilization rates. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.

Application Insights

Based on the category of Application, the Oncology segment dominates the Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market in 2024. Turkey has witnessed a steady rise in the incidence of various cancers, including lung, breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers, which together account for a large portion of the national cancer burden. According to recent epidemiological data, cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in Turkey. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, urban pollution, dietary changes, and an aging population are contributing to this trend. Early detection and screening programs have improved diagnosis rates, expanding the patient population requiring pharmaceutical intervention. This growing patient base fuels demand for a broad range of oncology treatments, from chemotherapeutic agents to novel immunotherapies.

Turkey’s oncology market is experiencing a shift from traditional chemotherapy to advanced treatment modalities, including Targeted therapies that focus on specific molecular pathways. Immunotherapies that harness the patient’s immune system to fight cancer. Personalized medicine approaches supported by genomic profiling. These therapies, often patented and high-cost, command premium pricing, driving significant revenue growth despite pricing regulations. The country’s regulatory bodies, including the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (TİTCK), have been increasingly aligning with global standards to facilitate faster approval and reimbursement of innovative oncology drugs.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

Marmara emerged as the largest market in the Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market in 2024, holding the largest market share in terms of value. The Marmara region boasts the highest population density in Turkey, with Istanbul alone accounting for nearly 15 million residents, making it the country’s most populous metropolitan area. This dense population base translates into: High demand for pharmaceutical products across all therapeutic categories due to sheer volume of patients.

A diverse patient demographic, including urban and suburban populations with varying healthcare needs and purchasing power. Increased prevalence of both communicable and non-communicable diseases owing to urban lifestyle factors such as pollution, stress, and dietary habits, driving the need for a wide spectrum of medicines. The region’s population growth and urbanization trends continue to bolster pharmaceutical consumption rates, solidifying its position as the largest market.

Marmara leads Turkey in healthcare infrastructure development, hosting: The highest concentration of public and private hospitals, specialty clinics, and cancer centers equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Numerous university hospitals and research institutions, which facilitate cutting-edge clinical trials and promote innovation in pharmaceutical care. Well-developed pharmacy networks and distribution channels, ensuring efficient access to medicines for both urban and peri-urban populations. This infrastructure not only supports high pharmaceutical sales volumes but also encourages the introduction of new and specialized therapies in the region.

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, Uzbekistan’s ERIELL Group entered into a tripartite cooperation agreement with Turkey’s Abdi İbrahim and Guray Group to collaborate on the production, sales, marketing, and distribution of licensed Abdi İbrahim pharmaceuticals in Uzbekistan.
• In January 2024- Turkish Cargo has launched three specialized services for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments: TK Pharma Standard, TK Pharma Extra, and TK Pharma Advanced. These offerings are designed to deliver flexible, reliable solutions for pharmaceutical and medical cargo, ensuring full compliance with industry regulations and quality standards.

Key Market Players

• Bilim İlaç Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.
• Pfizer Türkiye
• Novartis Türkiye
• GSK Türkiye
• Menarini Turkey
• Amgen Türkiye
• EastPharma Ltd
• Ferring Türkiye
• Eczacıbaşı Holding A.Ş. (Gensenta Pharmaceutical Industry and Trade Inc.)
• Takeda Türkiye
• Bristol Myers Squibb Türkiye
• Merck Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals Trading Inc.
• ITF İLAÇ San. Ve Tic. Ltd. Şti.
• AbbVie Medical Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Drug Type:

o   Branded Drugs

o   Generic Drugs

• Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Product Type:

o   Prescription Drugs

o   Over-The-Counter Drugs

• Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Application:

o   Oncology

o   Metabolic Disorder

o   Cardiovascular

o   Anti-infective

o   Musculoskeletal

o   Others

• Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Hospital Pharmacy

o   Retail Pharmacy

o   E-Pharmacy

• Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market, By Region:

o   Marmara

o   Central Anatolia

o   Aegean

o   Mediterranean

o   Black Sea

o   Eastern Anatolia

o   South-Eastern Anatolia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market.

Available Customizations:

 Turkey Pharmaceuticals market report with the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

 Turkey Pharmaceuticals Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at sales@techsciresearch.com