The Tuzla Shipyards Region, located in the Tuzla district of Istanbul, is one of Turkey’s most significant hubs for shipbuilding and repair. Situated along the Marmara Sea coast, this region plays a vital role in both the local and international maritime industry. Established in the 1970s as a designated industrial zone by the government, it has grown to account for approximately 90% of Turkey’s ship production. The area is renowned for its modern infrastructure, high-tech equipment, and skilled workforce. It handles the construction, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, passenger ships, yachts, and military vessels. Contributing significantly to Turkey’s economy, the region is a key player in exports and employment.

Geographically positioned on the Asian side of Istanbul along the Marmara Sea, Tuzla benefits from a strategic location ideal for maritime trade and shipbuilding. The shipyards here adhere to international standards and increasingly focus on environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, they aim to enhance their competitiveness through research and development (R&D) and innovative projects.

Shipyards in the Region

The Tuzla Shipyards Region is home to numerous shipyards that specialize in both commercial and private vessel construction and maintenance. Many of these are members of the Shipbuilders’ Association of Turkey (GİSBİR) and are leading players in the sector. Here are some notable shipyards in the area:

• Sedef Shipyard: One of Turkey’s largest shipyards, spanning 270,000 square meters. Known for its large dry dock, it specializes in constructing large-scale vessels.
• Kuzey Star Shipyard: Offers international-standard shipbuilding and repair services across a 108,000-square-meter area, equipped with floating docks and new construction slipways.
• Gemak Shipbuilding Industry: A well-established name in ship repair and new builds.
• Desan Shipyard: Engages in both commercial and military ship production and maintenance.
• Çeksan Shipyard: Recognized for constructing and repairing steel-structured vessels.
• Tuzla Ship Industry: Focuses on small to medium-scale projects.

Beyond these, the region hosts dozens of small and large shipyards. Some specialize in yacht production (e.g., Turquoise Yacht Industry), while others focus on large commercial ships or custom projects. In total, more than 30 shipyards operate here, each with varying capacities and areas of expertise.

Companies Providing Products and Services to Shipyards

The Tuzla Shipyards Region supports a robust ecosystem of auxiliary industries that supply the materials, equipment, and services needed by the shipyards. These companies ensure the sector’s continuity while boosting economic activity. Below are some categories of products and services, along with examples:

• Material Suppliers: Firms providing essential inputs like steel, sheets, pipes, paint, and coating materials used in shipbuilding. For instance, GİSAŞ Shipbuilding Industry Inc. is a key supplier of materials and equipment.
• Technical Equipment Providers: Companies supplying cranes, welding machines, hydraulic systems, and electrical equipment for shipyard operations. Viking Marin Technical Equipment is an example in this field.
• Engineering and Design Services: Firms offering ship design, project management, and technical consultancy. Cemre Engineering collaborates with shipyards to deliver innovative solutions.
• Maintenance and Repair Services: Specialized services like cooling system maintenance, engine repair, and insulation. Local workshops often provide furniture, sheet metal work, and insulation services.
• Logistics and Maritime Services: Companies offering operational support such as tugboats, pilot boats, and pilotage services. GİSAŞ also coordinates such activities.
• Auxiliary Industry Products: Manufacturers of small-scale components like valves, pumps, and electrical systems. Yonca Teknik is an example in this category.

These companies work in tandem with the shipyards, supporting their production processes while enhancing local employment and global competitiveness.

Additional Notes

The Tuzla Shipyards Region reinforces Turkey’s leadership in the maritime sector. However, it has faced scrutiny in the past over workplace safety and labor conditions. While improvements have been made in recent years, further progress in infrastructure and workers’ rights is seen as necessary to unlock the region’s full potential.