Dr. Faruk Güler, CEO of ESBAŞ and BASBAŞ (Aegean and Western Anatolian Free Zones), met with academics and sector representatives at Near East University to comprehensively explain the contribution of free zones to economic growth and their transformative impact on global trade.

Near East University, ranked among the top 500 universities in the world, continues to combine academic production with practical experience. The “Global Trade and Free Zones: Experiences and Future Perspectives” event, organized by the Near East University Center of Excellence, hosted Dr. Faruk Güler, CEO of ESBAŞ and BASBAŞ, who possesses significant experience in the field of global trade and free zones, offering participants a comprehensive perspective.

Dr. Faruk Güler, one of the leading managers of the free zone model in Turkey, is the CEO of Ege Free Zone Founder and Operator Inc. (ESBAŞ) and West Anatolian Free Zone Founder and Operator Inc. (BASBAŞ). Dr. Faruk Güler serves as the Chairman of the Executive Board and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at BASBAŞ (Eastern Anatolian Free Zones) companies. His experience reinforces the depth of his knowledge, and his assessments of the role of free zones in global trade stood out.

The event, held at the Near East University Grand Library, brought together academics and industry representatives such as GİTYAD (Gaziantep Free Zones Association), providing a productive knowledge-sharing environment that combined theory and practice. Moderated by Prof. Dr. Murat Özgören, the event featured Dr. Faruk Güler sharing his experience and expertise in global trade and free zones, highlighting the importance of these structures for economic development and international competitiveness. During the event, current trends in global trade were discussed in detail, addressing the impact of free zones on economic growth, the advantages they provide to the investment environment, and their role in international competition. Participants had the opportunity to listen to both theoretical and practical information.

Emphasis on new generation free zones for the TRNC!

Establishment of a new generation free zone for the TRNC was recommended by Dr. Faruk Güler, CEO of ESBAŞ and BASBAŞ. In his speech, Faruk Güler emphasized that free zones have become indispensable tools for countries seeking a competitive advantage in global trade. He stated that digitalization, logistics infrastructure, and sustainability will be decisive factors in the development of free zones in the coming period.

Dr. Güler also noted that successful free zone models rely not only on tax advantages but also on strong management, international connections, and a qualified workforce. Presenting examples from free zone experiences in Turkey, Dr. Güler pointed out that with proper planning and strategy, these structures can accelerate regional development. In his presentation, Dr. Güler also emphasized the need for a comprehensive discussion and consideration of a suitable, next-generation free zone structure in the TRNC that will revitalize the quality of life and business life.