From Greece to South Korea and Argentina to Venezuela, Turkish television series, or "dizi" have captivated audiences worldwide. Since the early 2000’s, when "Gümüş" ("Silver") became a sensation in the Middle East, Turkish series have steadily expanded their reach across the globe.
The most popular of these series often revolve around star-crossed lovers or tales from the Ottoman past, but the burgeoning dizi industry also reflects broader trends in contemporary Turkish economics and politics.
A Profitable Export
Turkey has traditionally been known for exporting vehicle parts, textiles, hazelnuts, and olive oil. However, scripted television series have recently emerged as a significant new export category. According to the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, the export value of Turkish TV series reached approximately $700 million in 2023.
These series have been sold to 152 countries, with substantial growth in markets across the Middle East, the Balkans, and Latin America. The arrival of streaming platforms like Netflix has further boosted Turkey's profile as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, attracting even more international viewers.
Global Demand Surge
Between 2020 and 2023, global demand for Turkish dizi skyrocketed by 184%, according to a recent report. This surge has positioned Turkey as one of the leading exporters of television series, ranking third globally after the United States and Britain. The international appeal of Turkish series is undeniable. These productions are now broadcast in more than 170 countries, spanning regions as diverse as the United States, Russia, the Far East, and Latin America.
This extensive reach enables Turkish series to captivate approximately 750 million viewers around the world. The widespread availability of Turkish series on streaming platforms like Netflix has further accelerated their global penetration, making them accessible to an even broader audience and cementing Turkey's status as a significant player in the global entertainment industry.
The Impact on Turkish Economy and Culture
The success of Turkish TV series on the international stage has significant implications for Turkey's economy and cultural influence. The dizi industry not only generates substantial revenue but also promotes Turkish culture and values worldwide. As Turkish series continue to captivate global audiences, they contribute to Turkey's soft power, enhancing its cultural and diplomatic footprint.
The rise of Turkish television series marks a notable shift in global entertainment trends. From its early successes in the Middle East to its current status as a global entertainment powerhouse, the dizi industry highlights the dynamic nature of Turkey's economy and its growing influence on the world stage. As the demand for Turkish series continues to grow, Turkey's role in the global entertainment industry is set to expand even further.
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