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Türkiye's Competition Authority Chairman Birol Kule said Monday that the ongoing antitrust inquiry into online music platform Spotify aims to promote fair competition in the music sector, ensure equal conditions for content producers, and protect cultural diversity in the digital space.
The Competition Authority launched the investigation on Friday over concerns of potential unfair competition by Spotify in the Turkish music market.
Turkish Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Batuhan Mumcu also warned that the platform could face legal action if it continues to fail to remove offensive content.
Amid these developments, Kule stated in a social media post that art and music are among the most fundamental values shaping the collective memory of societies and creating universal bonds between cultures.
In a post on his social media account, Kule described art and music as “the most fundamental values that shape the collective memory of societies and establish universal bonds between cultures.”
He referred to Anatolia as a region where music and art have flourished for centuries and said this deep-rooted culture, “stretching from Karacaoglan to Asik Veysel, from Haci Arif Bey to Neset Ertas, and from Zeki Muren to many others, has left a profound mark not only on its own people but on all of humanity.”
“We view safeguarding the efforts of our artists, who are the bearers of this rich heritage, not only as an economic responsibility but also as a cultural one,” he added.
Addressing the challenges of the digital age, Kule said that although access to music has become easier, it is essential that artists receive fair compensation and recognition for their work.
“A fundamental principle in terms of competition, social justice, and equal opportunity,” he said.
Kule stated that the authority is closely monitoring whether digital platforms maintain this balance and confirmed that the ongoing investigation into Spotify will evaluate several concerns.
These include pricing practices, artist visibility, copyright distribution, and privileges allegedly granted to specific producers.
“Our aim is to ensure fair competition in the music industry, enable content creators to operate under equal conditions, and preserve cultural diversity in the digital environment,” he said.
He concluded by stressing the importance of a fair digital ecosystem for all stakeholders.
“A digital ecosystem where artists can freely express themselves and receive fair compensation for their work will be a shared benefit for everyone,” Kule said, adding that the authority will continue to manage the process with diligence and a strong sense of responsibility.
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