Critique of Turkish Economy from NEW Party MP Özgür Karabat
Stating that the country has moved away from a production economy, Özgür Karabat shared data on contraction in industry and the foreign trade deficit.
NEW Party Istanbul MP Özgür Karabat argued that the Turkish economy is being dragged into a consumption- and import-based structure, moving away from production, and drew attention to the regression in industry.
Production and Consumption Balance
NEW Party Istanbul MP Özgür Karabat stated that the economic vitality created through debt and high interest rates is not real prosperity. He emphasized that Turkey's need is once again a production economy.
Regression in Industrial Employment
Karabat stated that the AK Party government imposes a consumption-oriented prosperity narrative. He noted that the share of industry in employment has regressed and the number of workers has decreased.
Growth Data and Exports
In the first quarter of 2026, household consumption increased while industry contracted. It was reported that the contribution of net exports to growth was negative.
Foreign Trade Deficit and Technology
It was stated that while the foreign trade deficit grew in the first seven months of the year, import dependency in high-tech products remained high.