Turkey Trade Ministry inspects packaged drink prices after deposit rollout

Turkey’s Deposit Management System (DOA), introduced on 1 July 2026, imposes a refundable deposit on plastic, glass and metal beverage containers to boost recycling. After the deposit fee was updated, consumers reported price increases of 3‑5 lira on water and other drinks. The Ministry of Trade (Ticaret Bakanlığı) responded with inspections in Ankara and Bursa, comparing shelf‑price tags with cash‑register prices and checking that the deposit fee is reflected correctly. Over 60 businesses were examined, with 170 product items reviewed and three months of purchase‑sale invoices requested. The inspections found many firms raising prices beyond the cost increase, suggesting exploitation of the new system.

Consumer groups, including the Bursa Consumers Association’s Sıtkı Yılmaz, warned that the hikes burden shoppers. Consumer‑confederation leader Aydın Ağaoğlu called for tougher penalties, saying “Fahiş fiyat artışında idari yaptırım ve cezalar daha etkili hale getirilmeli…”, and suggested fines based on the number of branches, repeat offences and possible closures, as well as criminal probes under Turkish Penal Code article 237. The ministry said any unjustified price rise will be treated as an unfair price increase and subject to administrative sanctions.