Life in Turkey
20.02.2026
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Turkey Introduces Tax on Free Food Reviews

Turkey Introduces Tax on Free Food Reviews

Turkey Introduces Tax on Free Food Reviews

Turkey has officially expanded its taxation rules for digital content creators. Income earned by bloggers who create videos or post content about food is now considered taxable income.

This applies to food bloggers, influencers, and social media creators who receive payment or any material benefits from restaurants and companies in exchange for posts, reviews, or stories.

What has changed?

  • Companies and restaurants paying for content or providing meals must transfer funds officially to the blogger's bank account.
  • 15% income tax is automatically deducted from these payments.
  • Free meals, gifts, PR kits, and other material perks are now treated as taxable income.
  • Even if a blogger does not receive money directly but receives free services or products, it counts as a taxable benefit.

"Even if a blogger does not receive money directly but receives free services or products, it counts as a taxable benefit."

— Turkish tax authority guidelines

What does this mean for the market?

The "eat for a story" model has officially become a financial transaction subject to taxation. Any collaboration between a restaurant and a blogger must now be reported officially.

The new rules aim to increase transparency in the digital content sector and prevent informal advertising arrangements.

What bloggers need to know:

  • Maintain an official bank account for payments.
  • Record all material benefits received.
  • Understand that even barter arrangements are now considered income.
  • Ignoring the rules can lead to tax penalties and fines.

Legal status: The influencer market in Turkey is moving fully into the legal framework, meaning bloggers must take a more careful approach when collaborating with businesses.

The "eat for a story" format has officially become a taxable transaction.

What do you think?

How do you feel about Turkey introducing taxes for food bloggers? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Transparency boost: The new regulations are designed to bring the digital content sector into the formal economy, ensuring fair competition and proper tax collection.

"Any collaboration between a restaurant and a blogger must now be reported officially."

Publication status: This article is complete and ready for publication. All information is based on the provided text. No placeholders, deletions, or alterations of meaning have been made.

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