Turkey Raises Tariffs on Ships Passing Through Bosphorus and Dardanelles

As of July 1, 2026, Turkey will increase the cost of the so-called 'golden franc' by 15%, from $5.83 to $6.70. This base unit is used to calculate tolls for ships passing through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits. The move is part of a gradual tariff revision that began in 2022, following nearly four decades of unchanged rates. Turkish authorities claim the increase is necessary to cover expenses related to ensuring maritime safety, operating rescue services, and maintaining the straits' infrastructure. According to Turkish economist Dilruba Taskin, the higher tariffs will put additional pressure on global trade, which is already facing uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Taskin notes that any increase in the cost of passing through the Turkish straits will inevitably affect logistics expenses and transportation costs, potentially driving up prices in international trade. The decision to raise tolls coincides with a period of high sensitivity in global markets to issues related to maritime logistics and energy security. Taskin warns that the impact of the tariff increase will be most felt by bulk cargo and energy carriers, with additional costs likely to be passed on to shippers and consumers. The Bosphorus and Dardanelles remain one of the world's most important maritime corridors, with tens of thousands of ships passing through every year. As a result, any changes to Turkey's tariff policy are closely watched by international businesses and insurance companies.