Prof. Dr. Erkut Akkartal stated that the "HIT-30 High Technology Investment Program" will positively impact all sectors. Consequently, it will also positively reflect on academia and education. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced the "HIT-30 High Technology Investment Program," which aims to make Türkiye the focal point of high technology investments. According to the program, the initial phase plans for the production of chips sized 65 nanometers and smaller.
Will Generate Significant Excitement in Sectors
Evaluating the program, Prof. Dr. Erkut Akkartal from Yeditepe University highlighted the program's significant breakthroughs. Prof. Dr. Akkartal said, "It is a package that includes a $20 billion investment, R&D supports, and numerous other incentives. Such motivation will generate significant excitement in many sectors. Today, there are two chip manufacturers in Türkiye. With this program and R&D support, many related industries will be revitalized. Türkiye can become a production hub for elements like electric vehicles, batteries, solar cells, and wind turbines."
Chips are Essential for Artificial Intelligence
Reminding that artificial intelligence is a trendy term nowadays, Akkartal highlighted that the processors supporting artificial intelligence are microprocessors, namely chips. He stated that chip production is a necessary project for Türkiye to not fall behind in the technology race. Prof. Dr. Erkut Akkartal, Head of the Logistics Management Department at Yeditepe University, continued his remarks as follows: "Therefore, I find it very beneficial. Since chips are at the forefront of electronic devices supporting artificial intelligence, and it is expected that artificial intelligence will make significant advancements in the coming years, it was necessary for this investment to be made in Türkiye. The realization of this investment is a perfect motivation. Currently, the allocated budget is $5 billion. However, once the private sector catches this motivation and the program becomes operational in Türkiye, related industries will also benefit and grow. Furthermore, there will be positive reflections on academia and education. Therefore, I see it as extremely comprehensive and beneficial."
Will Be Effective in Closing the Foreign Trade Deficit
Regarding the assessments that the lack of technology production is cited as the cause of issues such as inflation and the current account deficit in Turkey, Akkartal stated, “It will certainly have a very significant advantage in closing the current account deficit. Although it may not be measurable at the moment, once the first step is taken, future projections can be estimated. Of course, it will significantly improve the foreign trade deficit and create added value through technology exports. It is said that our value-added export products are very few. Yes, this is true. With this project, the increase in value-added goods and services will significantly contribute to rapidly closing the foreign trade deficit.”