The Turkish Statistical Institute has reported that in 2022, the central government budget's outlays on R&D activities amounted to 53 billion 844 million TRY, constituting 1.66% of the total budget.

Additionally, R&D expenditures from the central government budget accounted for 0.36% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which reached 15 trillion 6 billion 574 million TRY in the same year.

Furthermore, indirect R&D support, including R&D tax reliefs, amounted to 25 billion 722 million TRY for the year 2022.

When examining the allocation of R&D funding from the central government budget in 2022 based on socio-economic goals, universities emerged as the primary recipient, receiving 63.3% of the total funds for the general advancement of knowledge.

Following universities, defense received 10.9% of the R&D funding, while industrial production and technology received 6.1%. R&D initiatives financed from sources other than the central government's budget accounted for 4.9% of the funding, with education receiving 3.7%.

As Türkiye moves into 2023, the initial budget appropriations indicate a continued emphasis on the advancement of knowledge at universities. It is estimated that universities will receive the highest allocation for R&D, constituting 65.5% of the total funding. Defense ranks second among the socio-economic objectives, with 13.0% of the budget dedicated to R&D.

Additionally, industrial production and technology are projected to receive 4.6% of the funding, while R&D financed from sources other than the central government's budget will receive 4.3%. The agriculture sector is also set to receive 3.5% of the R&D funding.

The substantial investment in R&D reflects Türkiye's vision of fostering innovation and research-driven advancements across various sectors. By prioritizing universities for the general advancement of knowledge, the government aims to strengthen the nation's knowledge economy, enhance industrial competitiveness, and promote technological progress.

This significant commitment to R&D demonstrates Türkiye's determination to position itself as a leading force in the global landscape of research and development. As the country continues to allocate substantial funds to R&D activities, it strives to unlock new possibilities and opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development. (ILKHA)