Turkey is set to release the long-anticipated tender for 5G network services in August as part of its efforts to modernize digital infrastructure. Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that 5G services are expected to become operational by 2026.
The initial rollout will prioritize densely populated provinces, following a similar phased approach used during the 4.5G network expansion. The government has engaged extensively with telecom operators and public institutions to coordinate the transition, conducting both individual and group discussions with operators.
The tender’s launch was delayed from earlier planned dates in 2023 and 2024 due to unfavorable market conditions. Turkey’s mobile subscriber base currently stands at 94.3 million, with a penetration rate exceeding 110%, according to the national telecom regulator.
