Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce (ETO) President Metin Güler, during a joint meeting of the chamber's professional committees, provided updates on the chamber's activities and projects, emphasizing ETO's commitment to addressing trade issues and supporting its members.
Güler met with the professional committees at the ETO Assembly Hall to share updates on recent activities and projects. The meeting was attended by the board of directors, assembly members, the disciplinary board, and the auditing committee. Güler highlighted that ETO's professional committees have held 1,812 meetings over the past three years, resulting in 2,373 decisions, with 1,011 of these conveyed to TOBB and relevant institutions. He noted that the committees visited organizations 85 times to voice and address member needs, particularly during the pandemic, when they took on a significant responsibility.
Providing 102 Million Lira in Credit Support to Members
Güler stated that ETO has supported both small shops and large factories, visiting 5,600 members during the pandemic. To assist members financially, ETO facilitated 102 million lira in loans through programs like the "Breath Credit" and "Lifeline Credit." ETO also partnered with public banks to create supply chains, enabling members to purchase goods with up to 540-day terms without upfront payment. Güler emphasized that ETO provided the most extensive support in its history, mobilizing all its resources for members.
Expanding the Chamber's Services
ETO’s departments worked diligently, with 13,851 members attending 289 training sessions and seminars organized by ETO Academy. ETO launched ETOTV during the pandemic to continue these activities online, reaching 41,083 members through videos. Güler noted that ETO’s Visa Office secured long-term Schengen visas for 623 members, and tax and legal consulting services were provided free of charge to 1,493 members.
Contributing to the City and Members through Projects
Güler emphasized that ETO’s projects contribute not only to its members but also to Eskişehir's economy and cultural life. He highlighted that 13 fairs at the ETO TÜYAP Center attracted nearly 1.1 million visitors, while events at the Vehbi Koç Congress Center hosted 32,890 participants. He noted that 1.65 million lira in support was provided to women entrepreneurs through a project led by ETO, with ESİYAK and Fashion Eskişehir events further benefiting the city’s economy.
Acknowledging the Contributions of Professional Committees
Güler noted that ETO-METSEM, an organization providing exam and certification services in the mining sector, operates nationwide. He proudly announced that ETO has maintained its A-class accreditation status following recent audits. Acknowledging the contributions of the professional committees to ETO’s recent successes, Güler thanked the committee chairs and members. He reiterated that ETO’s professional committees would continue to play a role in identifying and solving trade issues. The meeting also included a presentation by TOBBUYUM Mediation and Dispute Resolution Center Director Dr. Onur Yüksel on the workings of the mediation system.