Transit fees through Turkish straits hiked by nearly 15%

Transit fees for vessels passing through the Turkish straits have seen a significant increase, with the rate climbing by nearly 15% starting from July 1. According to statements made by Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, the new fee amounts to $6.70 per net registered ton (NRT) of the vessel, up from $5.83 previously. This adjustment follows a series of incremental increases over the past few years, reflecting a broader trend of revising the charges periodically since 1983.

The changes to the transit fees are governed by the 1936 Montreux Convention, which outlines the rules for the passage of merchant ships through the Turkish straits. Under this agreement, the fees are calculated in "gold francs" and adjusted annually based on the vessel's NRT. The current revision marks another step in a long-term strategy to align the costs with economic realities while ensuring that the state benefits from the strategic importance of the straits.

Historically, the fee for transiting the straits remained constant at $0.80 per net ton from 1983 until October 7, 2022. On that date, the first major revision in nearly four decades took place, increasing the charge to $4.08 per net ton. Subsequent adjustments followed in July 2023, when the rate rose to $4.42, then again in July 2024 to $5.07, and finally in July 2025 to $5.83. These increments reflect a steady upward trajectory aimed at generating more revenue for the national treasury.

The Turkish straits, consisting of the Bosporus and the Dardanelles, hold immense significance as one of the world's critical maritime routes. They serve as a vital link between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, facilitating global trade and transportation. Vessels that pass through these waters without making a stop at Turkish ports are subject to specific charges categorized into three main areas: health inspection, lighthouse, and salvage services. These fees are designed to cover the operational costs associated with maintaining safe navigation conditions within the straits.

Revenue generated from these transit fees has experienced substantial growth over the years. Between July 2021 and June 2022, the income from these fees amounted to around $38 million. However, this figure surged significantly to $223 million during the period from July 2024 to June 2025. As of late June 2026, the projected revenue stands at approximately $254 million, indicating a continued upward trend in earnings from this sector.

The implications of this increase extend beyond mere financial gains. The government views these revisions as essential for bolstering foreign currency inflows and enhancing public revenue. With each adjustment, there is an emphasis on how these changes contribute positively to the national economy. For instance, a vessel with a net tonnage of 10,000 tons would see its transit cost jump from $3,240 to roughly $25,000 following the latest revision, highlighting the magnitude of the change for large commercial vessels navigating through the straits.

Looking ahead, the revised fee structure remains in effect until June 30, 2027, suggesting that future reviews might continue along similar lines. The ongoing evolution of these transit fees underscores their role in shaping both the economic landscape and the strategic management of one of the world's most crucial maritime corridors.