ETO PRESIDENT GÜLER'S EMPHASIS ON FIGHTING INFLATION AND AVOIDING COSTLY PRICE HIKES

At the August regular meeting of Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce (ETO), President Metin Güler emphasized the importance of avoiding price increases that would raise production and operating costs as part of the ongoing fight against inflation.

The meeting, held at the Mustafa Çekiç Meclis Hall, covered various agenda items, and ETO President Metin Güler shared key updates on upcoming events and activities. He mentioned that the Eskişehir Fair and Congress Center would continue hosting events after the summer, with the Eskişehir 5th Agricultural Fair scheduled for September 4-8, and the 4th Eskişehir Industry Fair taking place from November 6-9. Additionally, Güler announced that the Caravanlife Expo Eskişehir 2025 would be held from February 12-16, 2025, showcasing caravan and camping products.

ETO ACADEMY'S NEW TRAINING AND SEMINAR PROGRAMS

Metin Güler also highlighted the new training and seminar programs of ETO Academy, which will run from September 19, 2024, to May 15, 2025. A total of 30 events, including 13 seminars and 17 training sessions, will be held for ETO members and their employees. Furthermore, Güler mentioned ongoing plans for the Vehbi Koç Congress Center, where significant cultural, artistic, and business events are expected to take place.

INFLATION ACCOUNTING REMAINS A CONCERN FOR ETO

President Güler once again raised the issue of inflation accounting, a topic he had previously addressed. He explained that due to this practice, non-existent or paper-based profits are being taxed, leading companies to incur additional debt as they struggle to meet the tax burden. He called for new regulations from the economic administration to address this problem and prevent further financial strain on businesses.

ENERGY PRICE INCREASES HINDER FIGHT AGAINST INFLATION

Güler also discussed the impact of recent energy price hikes, particularly the natural gas price increase that took effect on August 1, 2024. The 38% increase for residential natural gas and the 33.1% increase for facilities with less than 300,000 m³ consumption will exacerbate inflation and negatively affect operating costs for manufacturers. Güler emphasized that these price hikes would ultimately lead to higher product prices and worsen the overall inflationary environment.

In closing, Güler acknowledged the significance of August 30, marking both the Victory Day and the 102nd anniversary of Eskişehir's liberation from enemy occupation. He paid tribute to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades-in-arms for their leadership and sacrifices in securing the Republic.