Hamdi Ulukaya Reappointed as Chair of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council
Hamdi Ulukaya, the dynamic founder and CEO of the U.S.-based yogurt brand Chobani, has been reappointed as the chair of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council. This announcement, made on July 12, 2025, signifies a strong commitment to fostering business relationships between the United States and Türkiye, particularly under the auspices of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Strategic Importance of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council
The U.S.-Türkiye Business Council plays a pivotal role in enhancing cooperation between American and Turkish business sectors. Its primary mission is to expand commercial ties and investment avenues across various industries. This synergy aims not only to boost trade but also to create a more integrated economic landscape for both nations.
A Catalyst for Trade Negotiations
Since his appointment in 2023, Ulukaya’s leadership has proven crucial, especially in reviving discussions around the U.S.-Türkiye Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA). These talks had been dormant for seven years before Ulukaya stepped into the role. His efforts have helped bring private-sector perspectives to the forefront of trade negotiations, a critical step in making the processes more inclusive and effective.
Setting Ambitious Trade Goals
One of the notable achievements under Ulukaya’s chairmanship is the renewed focus on achieving a $100 billion bilateral trade target, a goal established by the presidents of the two countries in 2019. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has recognized Ulukaya’s contributions as instrumental in invigorating these ambitious efforts, emphasizing the strategic importance of Türkiye as a gateway to regions like Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.
Insights from Leadership
In a statement celebrating his reappointment, Ulukaya expressed pride in the role, emphasizing the council’s potential to strengthen trade relations. He articulated a vision of collaboration, stating, “Together, we have a chance to build stronger bridges, share knowledge, and create real impact for our industries, our communities, and the world we all share—there is no limit to what we can achieve.”
Background of Hamdi Ulukaya
Born in 1972 in Erzincan, Türkiye, Hamdi Ulukaya founded Chobani in 2005 and has since grown it into a powerhouse in the yogurt industry. The brand accounts for over 20% of the U.S. yogurt market, generating annual revenues that reached approximately $3 billion by 2025. Known as the "yogurt king" in the U.S., Ulukaya’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach have not only contributed to his company’s success but also to his recognition, as he ranks as the 11th wealthiest Turk worldwide, with a net worth exceeding $2.3 billion.
Recent Initiatives and Public Engagements
Ulukaya has recently grabbed headlines for a significant sponsorship deal between Chobani and the prominent Turkish sports club Fenerbahçe. The agreement, valued at $117 million, includes stadium naming rights and sponsorship for the club’s European competition kits for the next five years. This move underscores both his commitment to promoting Turkish culture globally and his savvy business acumen.
Conclusion
Hamdi Ulukaya’s reappointment as chair of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council represents a robust commitment to strengthening the economic ties between the United States and Türkiye. His leadership continues to inspire significant initiatives aimed at fostering trade and investment, making him a standout figure in both the culinary and business landscapes.
