Spotify confirms new Istanbul office to prioritize Türkiye’s music industry
Spotify sets out long-term plans for Turkish music with new leadership, local programs, and Istanbul office to fuel growth.
From tension to investment
After a rocky period between Spotify and Turkish authorities last year, things are looking very different now. Last year’s tensions cast doubt over Spotify’s future in the country. Turkish officials had criticized parts of the platform, including playlists they said conflicted with national values, alongside the launch of an antitrust investigation that also looked at how Spotify pays artists.
Now, Spotify has officially confirmed it will open a new office in Istanbul by the end of June, marking a clear commitment to Türkiye’s music industry. As part of the shift, Managing Director Akshat Harbola’s leadership role has expanded to include Türkiye, alongside his existing oversight of the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan.
How Spotify is helping Türkiye’s music industry
Investment in Türkiye
Spotify says it is doubling down on its long-term support for Türkiye’s music ecosystem, spanning artists, creators, and culture. This includes the continuation of existing local programs, including EQUAL Turkey, which supports female artists; RADAR Turkey, which supports rising talent; and the ICON program, which celebrates the legacy and cultural impact of some of Türkiye’s most beloved artists.
The company also plans to host a series of Spotify Masterclasses in Istanbul across the year, beginning in Spring. These sessions will focus on understanding the streaming economy, editorial playlists, and other tools that artists and teams can use to succeed in today’s music industry.
A global push
The global appeal of Turkish music has increased in recent years. Spotify revealed that 52 million users outside of Türkiye listened to at least one Turkish song in 2025. In fact, international listening to Turkish music has jumped more than 160% since 2020, to the point where one in every 14 people across the world listen to Turkish music. Spotify wants to continue that global push, helping more Turkish artists gain worldwide recognition.
Essentially, Spotify’s push is all with the focus of “supporting the sustainability of careers and helping local voices reach different audiences worldwide.”
A priority market going forward
Spotify has been clear that Türkiye is now a priority market. By opening an Istanbul office, Spotify will be able to strengthen ties with the country’s music community. For the Turkish industry, this should mean more local relationships, more tailored artist support, and a greater opportunity to reach global audiences.
“Opening an office in Istanbul is not a symbolic step for Spotify, but a completely structural one. Turkey is a priority market for us, and strengthening our presence here is a demonstration of our long-term commitment to the country’s music ecosystem, artists, content creators, and culture.”
Akshat Harbola, Spotify Türkiye’s new Managing Director
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