Why International Gaming Companies Acquire Turkish Studios: Unlocking UA Campaign Grants, Incentives, and Shelf Company Solutions
Why International Gaming Companies Acquire Turkish Studios: Unlocking UA Campaign Grants, Incentives, and Shelf Company Solutions
Why International Gaming Companies Acquire Turkish Studios: Unlocking UA Campaign Grants, Incentives, and Shelf Company Solutions
Introduction
Turkey’s gaming industry is booming, with its vibrant talent pool, competitive costs, and robust government-backed support programs. Global investors are increasingly seeking ways to enter this ecosystem—not only by building new subsidiaries from scratch but also by acquiring existing studios or even leveraging shelf companies to fast-track their access to incentives.
This article explores how international gaming companies, from Latvia to Germany, can unlock UA (user acquisition) campaign grants, tax exemptions, and export incentives by acquiring or establishing presence in Turkey.
Why Turkey Is Attractive for Gaming Investors
1. Talent & Success Stories
Turkey has produced global success cases such as Peak Games and Rollic Games, showing the scalability of local talent.
2. Competitive Operating Costs
Lower salaries, rent, and infrastructure costs compared to Western Europe make Turkey a natural choice for expanding studios.
3. Government-Backed Grants
Up to 50% support for UA campaigns.
R&D and export incentives covering salaries, software, and international marketing.
4. Strategic Location
Turkey bridges Europe and the Middle East, both rapidly growing gaming markets.
Government Support & UA Campaign Grants
UA Campaign Incentives
The Ministry of Trade reimburses up to 50% of digital advertising costs for mobile games published internationally.
Platforms include Meta, TikTok, Google Ads, and Unity Ads.
R&D Incentives
- TÜBİTAK and Techno-parks offer grants and tax breaks for gaming innovation.
Export Incentives
- Up to 80% corporate tax exemption on software exports.
Shelf Companies: Fast-Track Access for Foreign Investors
Many foreign gaming companies prefer not to wait several months for incorporation, membership applications, and incentive eligibility. This is where shelf companies become a strategic solution.
What is a Shelf Company?
A pre-registered Turkish entity with no prior operations.
Already compliant with Turkish corporate regulations.
Can be transferred immediately to a foreign buyer.
Why Shelf Companies Matter for Gaming & UA Incentives
Immediate eligibility for Ministry of Trade UA campaign supports (once member registration is finalized).
Saves 2–3 months compared to incorporating a new entity.
Offers a ready-to-use legal structure for acquisitions or joint ventures.
Example:
A Latvian gaming firm acquires a shelf company in Istanbul in two weeks, rather than waiting months for a new incorporation. The entity then applies for UA grants, enabling reimbursement of 50% of its ad spend from Day One of operations.
Acquisition vs. Shelf Company – Which Is Right For You?
| Criteria | Studio Acquisition | Shelf Company |
| Speed | 3–6 months (due diligence, SPA, integration) | 2–4 weeks |
| Access to Grants | Immediate (if studio is already registered) | Immediate (post-registration) |
| Talent Access | Existing team included | Team must be hired |
| Risk Level | Higher (tax, employment liabilities) | Lower (clean history, no operations) |
| Best For | Long-term integration | Quick market entry & UA campaigns |
Legal & Tax Considerations
100% foreign ownership is allowed.
Due diligence is critical for acquisitions (tax liabilities, MASAK compliance).
Shelf companies reduce these risks, as they are “clean” entities.
Tax treaties (e.g., Turkey–Latvia DTT) ensure dividend repatriation without double taxation.
Step-by-Step Guide
Decide on acquisition vs. shelf company strategy.
Conduct due diligence or arrange transfer of the shelf entity.
Register with the Service Exporters Association (HİB).
Apply for UA campaign grants and other incentives.
Integrate your global publishing and UA strategy with the Turkish entity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a Turkish gaming company as a foreigner?
Yes. 100% foreign ownership is permitted.
What is the advantage of a shelf company?
It saves time and offers a clean structure for accessing incentives immediately.
How much UA support can I receive?
Up to 50% of UA campaign costs, with annual ceilings depending on export turnover.
Is due diligence necessary for a shelf company?
Much less so, since shelf companies have no past operations.
Conclusion
For international gaming companies, Turkey offers unmatched growth opportunities supported by government-backed grants. Whether through acquisition of a small studio or the purchase of a shelf company, foreign investors can:
Access UA campaign incentives faster.
Reduce tax liabilities.
Establish a strategic base in one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets.
Reach us
Are you exploring acquisitions or shelf companies to unlock Turkish gaming incentives?
✅ Book a Consultation with Evren Özmen – CPA & International Tax Advisor
We provide:
Shelf company transfers
Full due diligence for acquisitions
UA grant application support
Cross-border tax structuring
👉 Contact us today and secure your position in Turkey’s booming gaming ecosystem.
info@ozmconsultancy.com
