Turkish starch-based sugar industry investigation

Turkish authorities have launched a large-scale investigation into the starch-based sugar (NBŞ) sector, targeting 25 companies across multiple provinces including Istanbul, Ankara, and Adana. The probe, coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office and supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Tax Inspection Board, focuses on allegations of quota violations, tax evasion, and the forgery of private documents.

Investigators suspect companies are bypassing production quotas and domestic sales limits by mislabeling products. Specifically, starch-based sugar is allegedly being invoiced under different names such as ‘maltodextrin’, ‘glucose’, ‘starch’, or ‘fructose’ to hide its true nature. The investigation also includes allegations regarding the trade of spoiled or altered food products.

As the probe expands, 47 company managers have been summoned for questioning. The situation reflects broader tensions within the Turkish food market regarding the legal status and market impact of corn-based sweeteners compared to traditional beet sugar production.