Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Mersin Chamber of Maritime Commerce, TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that in regards to maritime freight, there is a lot of ground to cover as the maritime sector, “Especially, the 8 billion USD we annually pay overseas for freight could be conducted by us domestically. This is a great opportunity. We only carry 13% of our goods with the Turkish fleet. Starting from Central Anatolia, Mersin has a chance to become the next Marmara basin.”​

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu visited the Mersin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MTSO). Stating that the Marmara Region has become overcrowded, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “The sun rises from Mersin, Adana. We must think of a new Marmara Region which encompasses Çukurova, Kayseri and Konya. In order to bring this about, the first thing we need is transportation. Anatolia and Antalya requires transportation. This should be your priority. In order to become one of the capitals of tourism and industry, it is imperative to have an airport.”​

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu visited the Mersin University (MEÜ) Healthcare Research and Practice Hospital which TOBB helped with its foundation.​

Visiting Erdemli Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chair Orhan Sarı, Board Members and Council Members, TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “It is very fitting to call Erdemli the capital for lemons. Don’t forget that agriculture is not just for subsistence any more, it is a significant tool for profit. That is why it has been scaled and conducted in an informed manner.”​

Visiting the Silifke Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TSO), TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu attended the opening of the new service building. Pointing out the importance of branding, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “Residents of Silifke should brand their famous yogurt or both Silifke and Turkey will be at a loss.”​

Attending the Contributors to Anamur Award Ceremony held by the Anamur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TSO), TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that, especially due to the conjecturally risky state of markets for agricultural goods, “You may have difficulty receiving payment for your goods. There is a solution to that. You can insure for this possibility via Eximbank. Insure yourselves in the domestic market as well. Do not fall into deficit. Your markets are risky. Take steps to protect your business.”​

Kayseri Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chairman Mahmut Hiçyılmaz and the Board of Directors members accompanying him visited TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu at his office.​

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu received the American-Turkish Council (ATC) Chairman Howard G. Beasey and the delegation accompanying him at his office. ​

The 19th seminar for TOBB affiliated chambers’ and exchanges’ council members was held. Meeting with council members, TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the informing of council members who are opinion leaders of their regions is of the utmost importance for them and that they want council members to work in unity and solidarity to enrich their cities.​

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that Newroz, the symbolic reawakening of nature with the coming of spring, is a celebration of peace and friendship; bringing tranquility and joy, renewing and strengthening hope.​