Massive Crackdown in Auto Market: Over ₺250M in Fines After New ÖTV Rates

Following the latest Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV) revisions, the Turkish Ministry of Trade has launched a sweeping crackdown on manipulative pricing and unauthorized second-hand auto sales. As price volatility grips the automotive market, the ministry has issued over ₺250 million in administrative fines to violators.

Market Under Watch After Overnight Tax Shock

In response to the new ÖTV rates that sent car prices soaring—impacting even electric models like Togg and Tesla—the ministry is closely monitoring price changes, particularly those that appear artificially inflated. Officials confirmed that manipulative pricing, unlicensed sales, and anti-consumer practices will be met with strict penalties and enforcement.

“We are committed to protecting fair competition, stabilizing prices, and curbing the informal market,” the ministry emphasized.

₺103 Million Fine for Unlicensed Used Car Sales

Reminding the public that selling more than three vehicles per year without a license is considered commercial activity, the ministry imposed ₺103 million in fines on 220 individuals and businesses who violated this rule. Citizens are encouraged to report such cases via the e-Devlet complaint module.

“6 Month, 6,000 KM” Rule Violations Cost ₺52 Million+

To combat speculative stockpiling and price gouging that intensified during the pandemic, the “6 month, 6,000 kilometer” rule remains in effect for new vehicle resales. Violations led to:

• ₺52.5 million in fines to 131 authorized dealerships and galleries

• ₺95.7 million in fines to 476 entities that violated online price listing regulations

Additionally, 31 car dealerships lost their licenses for coercing buyers into forced trade-ins, accessory purchases, or overpriced sales, and were banned from second-hand trading for one year.

New Systems to Block Fraud and Shadow Dealerships

To curb fraud and unregistered sales, the ministry rolled out two critical digital systems:

• Secure Payment System, in partnership with Turkey’s Notaries Union, eliminates fraud and payment risk in second-hand car sales

• Electronic Ad Verification System (EİDS), requiring identity authentication before ad posting, allows only owners, close relatives, or licensed businesses to list vehicles

These measures aim to shut down shadow dealerships and protect consumers from hidden intermediaries.

Ongoing Oversight

The Ministry of Trade emphasized that all regulatory efforts are designed to prioritize consumer rights, support fair trade, and stabilize the auto market amid the evolving tax landscape.