GÜLER EMPHASIZES ECONOMIC CHALLENGES

During Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce’s (ETO) monthly assembly held via video conference on March 30, President Metin Güler stressed the need for Turkey to focus on breaking the cycle of high interest rates, high inflation, and a high exchange rate.

The meeting, initiated by ETO Vice Chairman İ. Atilla Sabahcı, saw discussions on current economic developments and ongoing activities. Güler expressed concern over renewed pandemic restrictions due to rising case numbers, which he noted have impacted both business and social life. He highlighted the efforts ETO has undertaken in March to support traders, industrialists, and small business owners navigating these challenging times.

Rising Exchange Rates Causing Unusual Costs

Commenting on economic conditions, Güler pointed to the adverse effects of currency fluctuations on businesses reliant on imports, which have led to unprecedented costs. He warned that high interest rates are particularly burdensome for businesses operating on credit, adding, "High interest rates are tying the hands of citizens and the business community, affecting sectors like construction that are hit hard by these financial constraints."

A Path to Economic Strength

Despite the challenges, Güler expressed confidence in Turkey’s resilience, suggesting that a focus on structural economic reforms could lead to a stronger recovery. "If we prioritize trust and stability in economic policies and if business leaders, bureaucrats, employer associations, and civil society work together, Turkey can add another chapter to its history of successes,” he concluded.