GÜLER: PROVİDE FULL LOCKDOWN SUPPORT TO TRADERS

Speaking at the April assembly meeting, Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce President Metin Güler emphasized the need for debt deferrals and financial support for traders whose operations have been halted due to full lockdown measures. Güler stated that the ETO has taken action to address this issue.

In his remarks at the ETO’s April general assembly, held via teleconference, Güler addressed the impact of the full lockdown on traders. He stated that businesses that have been forced to close need support, including deferrals for taxes, social security contributions, and other financial obligations such as checks and notes. Güler noted that the ETO has approached TOBB to request the deferral of credit and check payments and other debts for affected businesses during the lockdown period.

Support Needed, Especially for the Service Sector

Acknowledging the ongoing effects of the pandemic and the necessity of the full lockdown, Güler expressed concern that traders and small business owners forced to close will face financial hardship and that this needs to be remedied. He emphasized that businesses, particularly in the service sector, will require support for rent, taxes, and similar expenses while they remain closed.

Ending Supermarket Advantage

Güler highlighted the need for regulations on products that supermarket chains can sell during the lockdown, pointing out that many businesses across various sectors cannot operate. He argued that supermarkets should not be allowed to sell every type of product from A to Z, which creates an unfair advantage. Güler stressed the importance of preventing supermarkets from exploiting the pandemic to gain a competitive edge.

How Will Closed Businesses Make Payments?

Güler noted that the lockdown measures create uncertainties that could hinder commercial activities, as all businesses outside designated sectors must close, while tax offices and banks remain open, allowing commercial obligations to persist. He explained that business managers are forced to leave home to meet payroll and other payment obligations, creating further challenges. Güler called for the deferral of obligations for affected businesses, emphasizing that traders and shopkeepers cannot make payments if they cannot earn income. He reiterated the need for financial support for traders and small businesses during the full lockdown.