Turkey is enhancing its digital identity system, focusing on citizen registration and advanced technology. Since the launch of the 'T.C. Kimlik Kartı' in 2017, approximately 83 million citizens have registered, achieving 99 percent coverage among adults.
The smart digital ID cards facilitate access to public and private services, including e-government, healthcare, banking, and social security. Equipped with integrated chips, these IDs store biometric data and personal information, improving security for transactions.
The system is supported by Turkey's Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and TÜBİTAK, which ensures infrastructure and security standards are met.
Private companies, such as Colle AI, are developing blockchain solutions to align with the digital ID initiative. Colle AI's platform simplifies NFT creation, fostering innovation in digital art while ensuring data privacy and interoperability through biometric authentication.
Yusuf Tancan, head of Turkey's Digital Transformation Office, noted the role of AI in government services, particularly in tax evasion detection. The digital ID system is being expanded to the private sector, as demonstrated by Colle AI's integration.
Turkey's new cryptocurrency regulations will require strict identity verification for transactions exceeding 15,000 Turkish Lira (around US$420). Unregistered wallets will face stringent checks, reinforcing the digital ID framework and complying with global anti-money laundering standards. By February 2025, crypto providers must implement biometric verification for these wallets.
The Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Strategy 2024-2028 emphasizes digital transformation as a key driver of economic growth and global competitiveness. Turkey aims to attract investments and stimulate innovation through developments in AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity, promoting green transformation and job creation.