GÜLER: MEASURES SHOULD ALSO BE TAKEN TO KEEP TRADERS AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AFLOAT

ETO President Metin Güler stated that while the measures and restrictions introduced to curb the COVID-19 pandemic are necessary, support should also be provided to traders and small business owners whose operations have been temporarily shut down or restricted.

Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce President Metin Güler evaluated the recently announced COVID-19 measures and restrictions. He emphasized that the new measures are essential for the continuation of the healthcare system and the protection of public health. However, he also pointed out the need for support for businesses that have been temporarily closed or had their operating hours restricted. Güler underlined that 2020 has been a challenging year for traders, small business owners, and industrialists, with revenues significantly reduced compared to previous years. He added that many businesses are struggling to meet obligations such as rent and taxes, and are finding it difficult to repay loans taken out during the pandemic.

Traders and small businesses need support due to restrictions

Güler emphasized that in addition to the public health measures, economic measures should be taken to support traders and small business owners. He stated: “Many countries around the world have implemented measures and restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These decisions were necessary in our country as well, to ensure the continuity of our healthcare system and to protect the health of our citizens. However, economic measures are also required to keep our traders and small business owners, whose operations have been temporarily closed or restricted, afloat. The pandemic, which began in the first quarter of last year, coupled with the subsequent restrictions, has placed significant strain on businesses. To prevent traders and small business owners from falling into an even more difficult situation with the new restrictions, they must be supported. We believe that rent and cash flow support, as well as relief in SGK and tax payments, should be provided to our members whose operations have been restricted or completely halted."