ENERGY BILL REDUCTIONS NEEDED FOR BUSINESSES

Speaking at the February assembly meeting of the Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce (ETO), President Metin Güler highlighted that traders are struggling to keep their businesses afloat due to doubled or even tripled energy bills. He stressed the need for reductions in energy bills and lower interest rates on commercial loans to provide businesses with some relief.

The ETO held its regular February assembly meeting on February 22, starting with remarks from Assembly President Halil İbrahim Ara. During the meeting, agenda items were discussed, and ETO President Metin Güler offered insights into the economy and the chamber’s activities. Güler noted their commitment to addressing members' demands and supporting trade activities, mentioning efforts directed at 41 professional groups. He also discussed recent visits to the municipalities of Odunpazarı and Tepebaşı to represent the construction sector’s needs, as well as additional meetings in February to assess members' concerns.

Measures Needed to Prevent Rising Energy Costs

Güler stated that members’ most frequent complaint in February was the sharp increase in electricity and natural gas bills. Many expressed frustration over paying energy bills that felt equivalent to rent, with costs that have doubled or tripled. Due to these high costs, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to sustain operations. Güler called for adjustments and reductions in traders’, industrialists’, and artisans’ energy bills. He voiced concerns about the impact of rising global tensions, particularly between Ukraine and Russia, which could drive energy costs higher in Turkey. Güler urged the relevant ministry to implement necessary measures to manage these costs.

Interest Rates on Commercial Loans Should Be Lowered

Güler emphasized that rising operating costs and higher bills are challenging businesses and affecting their sales, thereby contributing to inflation. He noted that members are also concerned about high interest rates on commercial loans, urging banks to act more responsibly and support businesses by lowering these rates. Güler stressed that under current conditions, many businesses, especially small-scale ones, are unable to utilize loans, underscoring the need for reduced interest rates on commercial loans to offer some relief to traders and small enterprises.