13.01.2026 17:33
After the removal of the 30 Euro customs exemption for overseas shopping, opportunists have made exorbitant price increases on many products. This regulation, which drew the reaction of citizens, was also criticized by the President's Chief Advisor Oktay Saral. Saral stated, "Every decision made by the state should be centered around the people. If the implementation burdens the shoulders of the citizens, there should be a sincere assessment made there."
As of February 6, all products purchased online from abroad will be subject to customs procedures and a declaration requirement will be introduced. After the removal of the 30 Euro customs exemption, opportunists have made exorbitant price increases on many products. In response to the intense reactions from citizens, a signal of retreat has been given.
ÇELİK: SOME EVALUATIONS MAY BE MADE AK Party Spokesperson Ömer Çelik stated, "The main principle in customs tax regulation is consumer health and product safety. This step was taken to prevent unfair competition. In exceptional cases where there is a technological necessity, some new evaluations may be made. The door for this is open. The Ministry of Trade is showing the necessary sensitivity regarding excessive pricing," he said.
A REACTION FROM OKTAY SARAL: CITIZENS ARE BEING PUNISHED Following the reactions from citizens, Presidential Advisor Oktay Saral said, "The purpose of the 30 Euro regulation is to protect local producers and tradesmen. No one can object to this. However, the current situation shows that this purpose has been seriously distorted. If a product that costs 50 lira is being sold for 750 lira, and a device that costs 2500 lira is being sold for 15 thousand lira, there is no longer protection, but clearly opportunism and exploitation. In many areas, from electronic components to spare parts, citizens are practically being punished, and for a 3 dollar product, people are being directed to customs consultants, forcing them into expenses of thousands of lira. This situation is neither compatible with conscience nor with the principle of a social state. Every decision made by the state should be centered around the nation. If the implementation burdens the shoulders of citizens, it should be paused, and a sincere account should be made. Yes, local producers will be supported. But this support should be provided not by crushing citizens, but with justice and moderation," he said.