Why Türkiye’s TROY Payment System Is Gaining Global Attention

Rising tariff disputes and escalating geopolitical tensions are reopening debates about the future of globalization, while concerns over the security of global payment systems are growing rapidly. As international trade becomes more volatile, countries are increasingly prioritizing the resilience and independence of their financial infrastructure. In this context, a step Türkiye took nearly a decade ago is now attracting heightened global attention.

By launching its domestic payment system, TROY, in 2016, Türkiye aimed to reduce reliance on foreign-controlled payment networks. Today, amid mounting sanctions risks and financial fragmentation, that decision is widely viewed as a strategic move toward financial sovereignty rather than a purely technical initiative.

Payment Systems Emerge as Strategic Infrastructure

Uncertainty in the international system has entered a new phase in which pressure is applied not only through military or political channels, but also through technology and finance. Payment systems have become a critical component of this landscape. Experts warn that countries dependent on external payment systems face heightened vulnerability during crises or sanctions.

Payment networks are often among the first tools used to isolate economies, as cutting access to financial systems can quickly disrupt trade, consumption, and capital flows. Developing domestic alternatives is therefore increasingly seen as essential for safeguarding economic continuity.

Financial Independence in an Era of Geopolitical Risk

Analysts emphasize that building homegrown financial technologies is no longer optional. Control over payment infrastructure helps ensure uninterrupted transactions, protects sensitive data, and reduces exposure to foreign political decisions.

Türkiye’s TROY system reflects this approach. Designed as a nationally controlled payment network, it allows domestic financial activity to continue even under adverse global conditions. What once appeared to be a long-term precaution is now seen as a practical response to today’s geopolitical realities.

“Payment Systems Are Among the First Targets”

In conflict or crisis environments, economic isolation is often pursued alongside political pressure. One of the earliest steps is disconnecting a country from global trade mechanisms, and payment systems play a central role in that process.

For this reason, experts stress that locally developed, nationally governed payment technologies are vital to maintaining financial stability. Türkiye’s experience with TROY highlights how early preparation can reduce systemic risk during periods of global uncertainty.

Growing Concern in Europe Over US-Dominated Payment Networks

While Türkiye acted years ago, similar debates are now gaining momentum in Europe. The dominance of US-based companies in global payment systems has become a source of concern among European policymakers.

Aurore Lalucq, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, issued a direct warning on the issue. She stated:

“Almost all payment systems in Europe belong to American companies. We urgently need to create a European payment system. The United States could impose sanctions on payment systems at any moment.”

Her remarks reflect a broader realization that reliance on foreign-controlled payment infrastructure can create strategic vulnerability.

Lagarde Warns of Data and Sovereignty Risks

Similar concerns were previously raised by European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde, who highlighted the risks of relying on US-based financial infrastructure not only from a systemic perspective, but also in terms of data security.

Lagarde explained:

“This means that every time I use a credit card or a phone, my data leaves the borders of the European Union and goes to the United States.”

These warnings closely mirror the rationale behind Türkiye’s earlier push for payment system independence, reinforcing TROY’s relevance as debates over digital sovereignty intensify.

Türkiye’s Early Move Now Seen as a Model

What European institutions are now discussing at the policy level has already been implemented in Türkiye. The rollout of TROY nearly ten years ago positioned the country ahead of many peers in addressing financial autonomy.

Experts increasingly describe TROY as a working case study, demonstrating that a country can remain integrated into global markets while maintaining control over critical financial infrastructure.

TROY’s Market Share Exceeds 25%

According to data from the Interbank Card Center (BKM), TROY completed 2025 with strong performance across key indicators. The number of credit, debit, and prepaid cards bearing the TROY logo increased by 80%, reaching 90 million.

Transaction volumes also expanded rapidly. Payments made with TROY cards grew by 125% year over year, reaching a total value of 4.8 trillion Turkish lira. As a result, TROY’s value-based market share rose by 7 percentage points to 25.3%, meaning one out of every four card-based transactions in Türkiye is now processed through TROY.

Expansion Into Global Digital Platforms

TROY is now accepted at all physical and online merchants in Türkiye and is actively expanding its international footprint. One of the most significant steps taken in 2025 was the integration with Google Play, allowing TROY cardholders to make payments on a major global digital platform.

Further integrations and partnerships are planned to increase TROY’s acceptance across international e-commerce platforms, with a stated goal of raising its market share to 30% in the near term.

Beyond infrastructure growth, TROY continues to support adoption through consumer-focused campaigns, strengthening its position as both a strategic national asset and a competitive payment solution.