People do shopping ahead of the Eid al-Fitr at Spice Bazaar in Eminonu district of Istanbul, Türkiye on Mar. 29, 2025. (AA Photo
| Published April 4, 2025
In response to an opposition-led call for a nationwide shopping boycott on April 2, 2025, following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, Turkish business leaders have strongly opposed the move, urging citizens to continue supporting the economy.
The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB) President Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stressed that companies focused on production and employment should not be drawn into political disputes. Similarly, Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICOC) President Sekib Avdagiç criticized the boycott as irrational, emphasizing that businesses represent national values and provide essential jobs. Meanwhile, Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ISO) Chair Erdal Bahçıvan acknowledged citizens’ right to protest but warned against actions that could harm economic stability.
These business leaders collectively stress the need for economic resilience and unity, urging all sides to act responsibly to safeguard Türkiye’s economic interests.
The opposition newspaper BirGün pointed out that Erdoğan himself had encouraged citizens to boycott overpriced goods and services in December, as part of a government effort to curb runaway inflation, now at 39% year-over-year.
IMPLICATIONS
Here are the key implications of the boycott call and the business community’s response in Türkiye:
1. Economic Uncertainty and Business Confidence
The boycott, if widely followed, could disrupt businesses, reduce consumer spending, and weaken investor confidence in Türkiye’s economy. Business leaders’ strong opposition reflects fears of economic instability amid ongoing political tensions.
2. Deepening Political Divisions
The clash between opposition supporters and business leaders highlights Türkiye’s growing political polarization. The call for a boycott following Ekrem İmamoğlu’s arrest suggests that economic actions are becoming a form of political protest, which could lead to further unrest or retaliatory measures from the government.
3. Potential Government Response
The Turkish government may introduce economic support measures or policies to counteract the potential negative effects of the boycott. It could also take legal or administrative actions against businesses or activists supporting the movement.
4. Impact on Employment and Small Businesses
A sustained boycott could hurt local businesses and workers more than large corporations, as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often the most vulnerable to economic slowdowns. This could increase unemployment and financial struggles for ordinary citizens.
5. Long-Term Effects on Consumer Behavior
If political boycotts become a common tactic, consumer behavior could shift, with some citizens deliberately avoiding businesses perceived as aligned with certain political views. This could create long-term divisions in the marketplace based on political affiliations.
An empty supermarket is seen due to a boycott organized by the opposition, in Istanbul, Turkey, Apr. 2, 2025. EFE/EPA/TOLGA BOZOGLU
OVERALL TAKEAWAY
The opposition-led boycott call and the strong backlash from Türkiye’s business leaders highlight the deepening intersection of politics and the economy. While the boycott aims to protest the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, business leaders warn that such actions could harm economic stability, local businesses, and employment. This situation reflects Türkiye’s growing political polarization, where economic decisions are increasingly being used as tools of protest. Moving forward, the government’s response and the public’s reaction will determine whether this boycott remains a short-term disruption or signals a broader shift in consumer activism and political-economic tensions in the country.
SOURCES: TURKIYEH TODAY – Boycott call sparks outcry from Turkish business sector, urges citizens support economy
MEDYA NEWS – Turkey’s opposition boycott call triggers gov’t backlash, Chief Prosecutor’s Office launches investigation
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