Maritime trade law is a branch of law that regulates legal transactions related to ships and their navigation at sea. Transportation by sea provides significant economic and technical facilities, especially in the transportation of cargo over long distances and in large quantities. Today, nearly 90% of international trade is carried out by sea. Maritime trade keeps the world economy dynamic and constitutes a large part of international trade. Maritime trade law is indispensable for regulating and securing international trade, environmental protection, maritime safety and all related processes. International conventions on maritime trade provide the legal framework and legal security necessary for the safer, fairer and smoother operation of maritime trade.

The law of maritime trade is of great importance for Türkiye, given the geographical location of our country and the contribution of maritime transportation to the economy. The Turkish Straits and seas connecting Asia and Europe constitute one of the busiest transit routes of maritime trade. In this context, Türkiye has a serious strategic position in the conduct of international maritime trade.  Türkiye has a large number of ports and coastal facilities, shipyards and marinas. Likewise, there are many commercial companies and enterprises engaged in port and ship management activities. Institutions, organizations and companies engaged in maritime trade activities contribute significantly to Türkiye’s economic growth and foreign trade.

DEHUKAM plays an important role in supporting the development of the maritime sector and the smooth functioning of maritime trade by working effectively on the rules and practices governing maritime trade. In this context, DEHUKAM follows legislative amendments and developments, international conventions and practices related to maritime trade, organizes training programs and seminars on maritime law, contributes to raising the awareness of all sector stakeholders, improving legal regulations and international harmonization processes. It also cooperates with maritime authorities and academic institutions of other states at the international level.