Trade Minister Bolat’s message on customs negotiations with the US: Initial contacts established

Trade Minister Ömer Bolat stated that initial contacts have been established within the scope of customs duty negotiations to be conducted with the US and that the process will proceed with mutual understanding. Bolat made these remarks following the Eastern Black Sea Project (DOKAP) Action Plan Information and Consultation Meeting and the second Economic Coordination Council (EKK) meeting of 2025.

Emphasizing that ministerial-level talks will take place shortly, Bolat said, "We neither think we deserve the 10 percent additional customs duty nor do we expect it. However, we will continue the process in a constructive atmosphere."

“DECISIONS DURING THE TRUMP ERA CREATED CHAOS”

Stating that unilateral customs decisions taken during the Donald Trump era caused serious confusion in the global economy, Bolat expressed that the World Trade Organization's multilateral system was damaged during this process.

Stating that Turkey will use all rights granted to it by world trade rules in this environment, Bolat declared, "We will never allow Turkey to be used as a warehouse by rival countries. We have completed our preparations on this matter."

PREPARATIONS FOR ECONOMIC COOPERATION WITH SYRIA

Stating that contacts have begun with Syria's new administration under the instruction of President Erdoğan, Bolat expressed that efforts are underway to re-establish economic cooperation between the two countries. Noting that the steps taken to facilitate customs crossings will yield results in a short time, Bolat said that transit from Turkey to the Middle East and from the Middle East to Turkey will be accelerated.

"The transport ministries of the two countries are continuing their work to reach an agreement on the reconstruction of industrial zones, increasing investments, and conducting transfer operations within the country," said Bolat, adding that the Ministry of Industry and Technology will manage this process.

"OUR FIGHT AGAINST EXORBITANT PRICES WILL CONTINUE"

Making statements regarding agricultural frost and agricultural damage, Bolat noted that they are in close contact with the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı. He stated that efforts are ongoing to determine the damage, especially in stone fruits.

Stating that price increases in summer fruits may be possible, Bolat issued stern warnings against this situation being turned into opportunism:

“We will never allow exorbitant price policies. Neither the producer will suffer, nor will the consumer be victimized. Our inspections will continue on a provincial and district basis. If necessary, we will also implement import and export measures.”