Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that, in line with a request from the Muğla Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), the lodging tax had been reduced from 2% to 1%.

Noting that Muğla is one of Türkiye’s most important cities due to its history, natural beauty, tourism potential, and productive capacity, Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized that the city makes significant contributions to the national economy in many sectors, including tourism, agriculture, aquaculture, olive oil, mining, and yacht manufacturing.

Noting that the global economy is going through a difficult period due to wars and geopolitical developments, Hisarcıklıoğlu said that the slowdown in the European Union economy and China’s state-supported production model are negatively affecting exporters.

In Türkiye, Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized that high inflation, interest rates, and difficulties in accessing credit have caused the markets to contract, noting: “At our meeting with the Central Bank Governor and the CEOs of public banks, we conveyed the issues raised by our members regarding credit limits, high interest rates, commissions, transaction fees, and collateral requirements. We stated that credit restrictions have affected SMEs the most. We emphasized the need to swiftly take steps to support the real sector without weakening the fight against inflation.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu noted that, thanks to TOBB’s initiatives, the TOBB Breath Credits program, backed by the Credit Guarantee Fund (KGF), had been relaunched. He stated that 13,382 companies in Muğla have utilized KGF-backed loans to date, but that this was insufficient.

Noting that discussions are ongoing to expand KGF-backed loan opportunities, Hisarcıklıoğlu expressed his expectation that positive results would be achieved shortly.

Hisarcıklıoğlu also noted that the tourism sector is facing significant challenges, stating that the gap between inflation and the exchange rate is putting pressure on foreign exchange-generating sectors, and that global developments are also negatively impacting the sector.

Noting that tourism is one of the strategic sectors of the Turkish economy, Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized the need to support the sector. Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “In line with the requests of the Muğla Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the lodging tax was reduced from 2 percent to 1 percent. Additionally, under the Tourism Support Package, additional financing backed by a Treasury guarantee was provided, and wage and social security contribution subsidies aimed at boosting employment were implemented. It is of great importance that these support measures be continued,” he said.

Stating that they would listen to the business community’s demands and suggestions at the meeting, Hisarcıklıoğlu said they would continue to convey the issues raised to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the relevant ministers.

Emphasizing unity and solidarity, Hisarcıklıoğlu urged entrepreneurs not to lose hope, stating, “Let’s just make sure we don’t marginalize one another. Let’s not exclude anyone because of their ideas, beliefs, or views. Let’s not stray from consultation and collective wisdom. Let’s move our country forward together. Allah willing, Muğla will achieve even greater successes in trade, tourism, industry, and exports. Our chamber will continue to be at the center of these achievements.”

(A.A.)