Ministry of Trade decides on strict inspection for November discounts

The Ministry of Trade has tightened its inspections against fake discounts and misleading advertisements ahead of the intensive discount campaigns starting in November. With the new regulation that entered into force on August 1, it was reported that the lowest price of the last 10 days will be taken as the basis in discount calculations, and it was announced that administrative fines of up to 39 million 916 thousand liras can be applied to those who act contrary to the rules.

Before the discount campaigns that consumers show interest in throughout November, the Ministry of Trade has activated inspection mechanisms. According to the statements made, practices of first increasing the price of products and then showing them as if a discount has been made have been banned. In accordance with the regulation that came into effect on August 1, the lowest price applied within the last 10 days before the campaign must be taken as the basis in calculating discount rates. In addition, the start and end dates of the campaigns will be clearly indicated, and misleading the consumer with tiered discount rates and hiding exceptions will not be allowed.

Severe sanctions are envisaged for advertisements and campaigns contrary to the provisions of the legislation. Depending on the size of the violation, administrative fines starting from 99 thousand 339 liras up to 39 million 916 thousand 524 liras can be issued. The Ministry advised citizens to make price comparisons before shopping, verify the reliability of websites, and pay attention to additional fees at the payment stage. It was reminded that consumers encountering misleading advertisements can apply to the Advertising Board.