Turkey triples fuel taxes to counter economic challenges

Turkey has nearly tripled taxes on petrol and diesel in an attempt to boost state revenue and tackle economic difficulties, according to the country's official gazette.

The specific tax on petrol was raised from 2.52 Turkish lira ($0.1) to 7.52 lira per liter, while tax on diesel increased from 2.05 lira to 7.05 lira.

The tax hike, part of wider measures announced last week,  is expected to add around 6 lira to the final price of fuel  - raising prices by more than 20% per liter.

The government has increased spending ahead of elections in a bid to boost the economy,  but high inflation and a slumping currency have strained public finances.

Annual inflation hit 39.6% in June, down from a peak of 85.5% last year. However, the government's aim of reducing inflation to single digits by year-end looks ambitious. 

The higher fuel taxes and VAT rate increases are designed to shore up state revenues. But they risk further fueling inflation and placing additional strain on consumers and businesses.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has backed populist policies including wage hikes and early retirement plans. However, critics say the unconventional economic policies have exacerbated Turkey's troubles.

The tax increases come after Turkey's economy was hit by at least $100 billion in losses from earthquakes earlier this year.

مواضيع مرتبطة
التعليقات
or

For faster login or register use your social account.

Connect with Facebook