The truth can no longer be hidden: Why an interim pay raise is inevitable

The Turkish economy is facing a wave of inflation in the first quarter of 2026 that is far exceeding expectations. Economist İnan Mutlu states that "some truths can no longer be hidden" in the TUIK data, emphasizing that an "interim raise" has become an economic necessity for the working class to maintain their purchasing power.

"TRIPLE-DIGIT" SHOCK IN FOOD INFLATION

The most striking point Mutlu draws attention to is the exorbitant increases in basic food items. Just in the last 3 months;

- The increase rate for fruiting vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, etc.) reached 108%, setting a record. There was a 69% price jump in green legumes and a 58% jump in leafy green vegetables.

- Short-term increases ranging between 21% and 23% in milk, butter, and meat, which are the cornerstones of protein and breakfast tables, show that kitchen inflation is spiraling out of control.

Why is an interim raise necessary?

Even TUIK cannot hide some truths anymore.

3-month inflation for some food items:

??Fruiting vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, etc. 108%;
??Green legume vegetables 69%;
??Leafy green vegetables 58%;
??Fresh citrus fruits 24%;…

— inan mutlu (@inanmutlu1) April 5, 2026

THE ENERGY AND FUEL PINCH

It is not just food; the situation is not promising for items that directly affect production and distribution costs either. While diesel prices rose by 22% in the first three months of the year, the 25% hike in electricity and natural gas as of April signals that chain price increases will continue.

"MINIMUM WAGE AND SALARIES ARE MELTING AWAY"

Economist İnan Mutlu states that this simultaneous rise in energy and food prices is triggering a "cost-push inflation" spiral. According to Mutlu, this rate of increase in basic necessities has completely neutralized the salary increases determined at the beginning of the year, already in the first quarter.

"Whatever TUIK's annual basket says, this picture in food and energy, which is the citizen's 'real basket,' shows that if an interim raise is not implemented, domestic consumption will collapse and a social welfare loss will deepen."

According to economist Mutlu's analysis, the cost of living will intensify even further in May and June as the April energy hikes are fully reflected in the market. This makes a strong correction before July or at the beginning of July "essential" for the sustainability of the economy.

News Source: 12punto