International Trade Business Internship in Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul Africa Trade Company welcomes French-speaking students for an internship in international trade, at the heart of import-export activities between Türkiye and Africa. You will work on real projects in an international environment, from a city that connects Europe, Asia, and Africa.
At a glance:
- Location: Istanbul, Türkiye
- Field: import-export and sourcing
- Working language: English (French and Turkish may also be used)
- Eligible profiles: BTS, BUT, Bachelor’s, Master’s
Who are we?
Istanbul Africa Trade Company (IATC) is an international trade company based in Istanbul. We specialize in trade between Türkiye and African countries, supporting companies seeking to import or export between these two markets. We act as a trusted intermediary throughout every stage of the transaction. Our mission is clear: to facilitate trade between Türkiye and Africa by bringing together reliable partners and supporting our clients from the initial contact through to the successful completion of the deal. Our main activities:- Import-export consulting
- Supplier and business partner research (sourcing)
- Market research
- Support for companies expanding internationally
- Management and monitoring of international trade operations
Your responsibilities as an intern
You will take part in real business operations and gain a comprehensive understanding of international trade, from business development to partner follow-up.- Business development: identify and contact potential clients and suppliers in Turkish and African markets.
- Market analysis: research foreign markets and gather relevant information to identify business opportunities.
- Supplier sourcing: find reliable suppliers in Türkiye to meet the needs of African buyers.
- Client database management: maintain, update, and organize client and supplier databases.
- Import-export follow-up: support international operations and maintain relationships with business partners.
- B2B communication: contribute to communication on professional networks, particularly LinkedIn.
What you will learn
Throughout the internship, you will develop practical skills that are directly relevant to the job market:- Conduct business development in foreign markets and analyze the needs of international clients
- Communicate and negotiate with partners from different cultural backgrounds
- Understand import-export procedures and customer relationship management
- Apply sourcing techniques and understand logistical challenges
- Put theory into practice in a genuinely international environment
Who is this internship for?
This internship is suitable for students from a variety of academic backgrounds:- BTS International Trade (CI)
- BTS Managerial Action Support (SAM)
- BTS SME Management (GPME)
- BTS Negotiation and Digitalization of Customer Relations (NDRC)
- BUT Marketing Techniques
- Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Foreign Languages (LEA)
- Bachelor’s Degree in International Trade
- Business schools
- Master’s degrees in international trade, international business, or business development
The profile we are looking for
We value mindset just as much as academic background. Above all, we are looking for a motivated, curious intern who is eager to learn. Adaptability is particularly important in an environment where cultures, working methods, and markets vary from one country to another.- Motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to learn
- Comfort working in a multicultural environment
- Independence, organizational skills, and strong interpersonal abilities
- A good command of English, which is a significant advantage
- Basic knowledge of trade, negotiation, and office software is appreciated
Why complete your internship in Istanbul?
Istanbul is one of the region’s leading economic centers and a major hub for global trade. Completing your internship here gives you first-hand exposure to international business.- Strategic location: a crossroads between three continents and a major international trade hub.
- Multicultural environment: you will work with partners from several countries and strengthen your intercultural communication skills.
- Language development: you will use professional English daily while gaining insight into the Turkish business world.
- Varied projects: you will contribute to practical assignments and bring a fresh perspective that adds value to our activities.
- An experience that strengthens your CV: a valuable asset for your future career.
- Personalized support: we share our practical experience and guide you throughout the internship.
