Turkey is preparing a significant expansion of its energy portfolio, with Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar outlining plans to extend recent domestic successes in oil and natural gas production to international ventures. Building on discoveries in areas like Gabar and the Black sea, Ankara aims to attract partnerships with major global players-including Exxon and Chevron-and perhaps pursue acquisitions to increase its energy influence [[3]]. The move comes as turkey’s state-owned TPAO seeks to become a global energy leader,with production targets reaching 500,000 barrels per day by 2028 [[3]].
Turkey is poised to unveil a new energy strategy in 2026, with plans to expand its successful oil and natural gas production capabilities internationally, according to Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar.
New Strategy for Oil and Natural Gas in 2026
Speaking on A Haber’s live broadcast, Bayraktar stated that following successes at Gabar and in the Black Sea, Turkey will seek to leverage those achievements through overseas ventures, utilizing diverse business models and strategic partnerships. “After our successes in production at Gabar and in the Black Sea, we will now carry these capabilities abroad, through different business models and partnerships,” he said. The Minister highlighted anticipated collaborations with companies like Exxon, Chevron, and other foreign entities, including potential acquisitions and mergers, to significantly broaden Turkey’s reach in the energy sector.
Bayraktar also pointed to increasing production capacity, noting that Turkey aims to reach 500,000 barrels per day by 2028, building on current output from the Black Sea gas and Gabar oil fields. Long-term plans envision increasing that figure to 1 million barrels per day, signaling a substantial commitment to bolstering domestic energy production. This expansion could position Turkey as a more significant regional energy player.
Will Natural Gas and Electricity Prices Rise?
Responding to a question from A Haber Ankara Representative Murat Akgün regarding potential price increases for natural gas, Minister Bayraktar confirmed that current support programs will continue. “Our support program continues. 400 billion lira of support continues. There will be no increase in natural gas and electricity prices in February,” he stated. The announcement provides short-term stability for consumers amid ongoing global energy market fluctuations.
Bayraktar also indicated that 2026 is expected to be a record year for natural gas, and also for renewable energy. This projection suggests a strong outlook for Turkey’s energy sector, driven by both traditional and sustainable sources.
* The image for the news is provided by Anadolu Agency. It is representative.
