Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Hisarcıklıoğlu suggested that the new deputy tax inspectors should emulate the Minister of Finance, Mehmet Şimşek. Stating that the Minister is a good role model for anybody studying with limited means, Hisarcıklıoğlu said that Şimşek’s story was one of extraordinary success.

Hisarcıklıoğlu, stating that during the introductions of relevant university courses, it is taught that increases in tax rates directly results in an increase off-the-record economy, said that not even Al Capone could get away from tax inspectors.

Emphasizing that he is the person most put off by off-the-record economy in Turkey, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “Two neighbors sell the same goods, one pays taxes; the other doesn’t. This is an immense injustice.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu, saying that those who cannot give account of their business, have no business demanding an accounting from others, “Recorded economy is indispensable for a strong democracy.”

Urging the tax inspectors to not view companies as potential thieves, Hisarcıklıoğlu said:

“The Turkish private sector, once allowed to do so, wrote an epic success story in 30 years. We have increased Turkey’s export volume from 3 billion USD to 152 billion USD.

Turkey produces the most varied number of brands, second only to USA in production as well as having significant success in regards to household appliances.

- Treasury Minister Şimşek, TESK President Palandöken

Minister of the Treasury, Mehmet Şimşek said to the newly appointed deputy tax investigators, “We must view our charges not as potential criminals or tax evaders but valuable assets of this country. Our approach will be this.”

Minister Şimşek went on to congratulate the deputy tax investigators on their appointments at the program which took place at the TOBB University Conference Hall, held by the Tax Investigation Council (VDK).

Turkey Craftsmen and Artisans Confederation (TESK) President Bendevi Palandöken also drew attention to the need to decrease off-the-record economy.

Following the program, Minister Şimşek, TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu, TESK President Palandöken and VDK President Adnan Ertürk conversed at a café at the university.