Mandatory Step for Exports to the EU: Corporate Twin Transformation
Project Led by Yeditepe University Receives Support from the Istanbul Development Agency
The “Corporate Twin Transformation Project”, initiated in partnership with the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), Turkish Aluminium Industrialists Association (TALSAD), and Turkish Foundry Association (TÜDÖKSAD) under the coordination of Yeditepe University, has been granted support by the Istanbul Development Agency (İSTKA). Building on this partnership, project leaders emphasize the transformative power of their efforts.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Turan, Director of Yeditepe University Technology Transfer Office (YUTTO), stated: “We are preparing our SMEs for both digitalization and sustainable production.” Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. E. Şule Aydeniz, Head of the Department of International Business Administration (German), contributed to these insights by emphasizing:Twin transformation is essential for SMEs to stay globally competitive.
EU Regulations Make Twin Transformation a Necessity
The German Supply Chain Act and EU Due Diligence Directive demand sustainability from all importers. EU states now require compliance across supply chains.
With the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) starting January 2026 and Türkiye’s Climate Law in effect July 2025, companies—especially SMEs—must transform to meet strict standards or face penalties.
In response to these sweeping regulatory changes, the Corporate Twin Transformation Project aims to help firms integrate digital transformation and sustainability principles into their business processes.
“Decarbonization in Industry Is Now Mandatory”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Turan described twin transformation as a turning point for industry:
Starting 2026, carbon-heavy sectors like steel, aluminum, and fertilizers will pay carbon taxes. Decarbonization is crucial for national economic survival. This project delivers actionable support for industry, researchers, and partners. The strategy is clear: drive green and digital transformation.
He added that the project’s partners include TİM, TALSAD, and TÜDÖKSAD, alongside stakeholders from the chemicals, iron and steel, aluminum, and ceramics sectors.
We launch with Istanbul partners, then scale nationally. Our platform delivers targeted training for students and employees. Completion gives firms real advantages—shielding them from EU carbon taxes and opening new markets.
“AI-Powered Chatbot for Decarbonization Guidance”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Turan also noted the project’s innovative use of artificial intelligence:
For the first time, we are developing an AI-powered chatbot that provides instant answers to questions about decarbonization in the context of our organization’s sustainability initiatives. The chatbot will cover topics such as carbon reduction strategies, best practices, relevant industry terms, and internal procedures. Whether it’s an employee or a student, anyone can consult the chatbot to learn about carbon reduction processes. This will effectively create a comprehensive digital knowledge base on decarbonization tailored to our organizational needs.
“High Carbon Footprint Means Extra Tax”
Prof. Dr. Şule Aydeniz, a researcher on the project, underlined the urgency of compliance:
EU rules demand sustainability in all imports. Turkish exporters, especially SMEs, must now act. High carbon footprint brings extra taxes and erodes competitiveness. With Türkiye’s Climate Law now active, the green transition is mandatory.
“Time and Cost Efficiency for Firms”
Prof. Dr. Aydeniz added that the twin transformation model will offer companies both time and cost advantages: “As digital systems drive green transformation, firms achieve dual aims: cost savings and speed. Simultaneous transformation secures financing, sustains exports, and ensures competitiveness.
Our project charts a direct path: green tech, corporate governance, sustainability reporting, financial feasibility, funding options, workers’ rights, and social responsibility. We actively connect firms to funding across Türkiye and Europe, targeting 30 companies and 400 employees in 12 months.”