Tent and bag prices had surged: Heavy penalties on the way for opportunists turning the earthquake crisis into profit

The Ministry of Trade took action following the earthquakes that occurred in Istanbul on April 23. Inspections conducted in response to numerous complaints from citizens revealed that prices for vital products such as earthquake kits, first aid kits, and earthquake tents had increased in an unusual manner. As a result of the inspections, proceedings were initiated against 236 businesses found to have increased the prices of 1,079 products.

In a statement released by the Ministry, it was noted that "complaints were received regarding exorbitant price hikes on materials such as first aid kits, earthquake tents, and earthquake kits following the earthquakes that occurred in Istanbul on April 23." In line with this, inspections were intensified in Ankara and Izmir, as well as in Istanbul.

The statement indicated that not only physical stores but also sellers operating on major e-commerce sites were placed under scrutiny. It was emphasized that information and documentation were urgently requested from firms selling through online platforms, and that a meticulous follow-up process is being maintained.

Details regarding the initial results of the inspections were also shared with the public. The statement included the following: "It has been determined that 236 businesses increased prices on 1,079 products such as earthquake kits, first aid kits, and earthquake tents, and analysis and examination work regarding these businesses and products is currently ongoing. As a result of the final examination, the Unfair Price Evaluation Board may impose an administrative fine of up to 1 million 439 thousand 300 Turkish Liras for each product for which an exorbitant price increase is detected by the businesses in question."

The Ministry of Trade stated that they are working with determination to protect a fair trading environment and delivered the following message: "As the Ministry of Trade, we emphasize that we will continue our struggle with determination to ensure a market order that is fair, transparent, consumer-friendly, and one that protects the rights of our commercial businesses that do their jobs properly; we remind once again that our inspections will continue against individuals and organizations that turn social sensitivity into an opportunity during disaster situations by making exorbitant price hikes and victimizing our citizens."

News Source: AA