Turkey school shopping costs rise amid safety warnings

As the new academic year approaches, families in Turkey are facing significant financial pressure due to rising costs for school supplies and clothing. Reports indicate that basic stationery needs for a single student can cost between 2,500 and 8,000 TL, while total expenses for some families reach as high as 60,000 TL. Saadet Party leader Mahmut Arıkan has called for government education support, noting that the cost for a family with three children can exceed 24,000 TL for stationery alone.

In addition to economic concerns, experts are issuing warnings regarding consumer safety. Lawyer Mehmet Mücahit Arvas highlighted the risks of e-commerce, noting that unlike physical stores, online shoppers cannot inspect safety marks such as the CE mark on felt-tip pens or flammable warnings on spray paints. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Trade has increased inspections in provinces like Hatay to ensure products meet health and safety standards.

Market trends show a divergence in shopping priorities: parents are primarily focused on clothing and footwear, while university students are prioritizing technology, such as computers and tablets. Research by Hepsiburada suggests that while parents often shop 1 to 4 weeks before school starts, university students tend to purchase technology earlier in the season.