Notes from Ski Tourism Forum to Ski Tourism Policies

Executive Summary

Ski tourism in Turkey has entered a period of rapid transformation. Investments aimed at developing, constructing, and renovating ski areas and centers across the country continue to increase, while the promotion and popularity of skiing and snow sports are gradually growing within Turkish society.

However, these positive developments are taking place alongside significant challenges, including the negative impacts of climate change, the highly limited and concentrated structure of the international ski tourism market, and the lack of experience among Turkish ski resorts in destination management.

The Turkey Ski Tourism Forum, held on May 22, 2015, at the Istanbul Policy Center (IPC) of Sabancı University, brought together international ski tourism experts, Turkish policymakers, and industry stakeholders. Through discussions and presentations on climate change, market size, and destination management, the forum contributed to the development of assessments and recommendations regarding ski tourism policies and planning in Turkey.