Türkiye Hikes Fuel Tax by 6%, Aims to Control Inflation

A girl sells flowers to passersby on the Karakoy sea promenade in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
A girl sells flowers to passersby on the Karakoy sea promenade in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
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Türkiye Hikes Fuel Tax by 6%, Aims to Control Inflation

A girl sells flowers to passersby on the Karakoy sea promenade in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
A girl sells flowers to passersby on the Karakoy sea promenade in Istanbul, Türkiye, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Türkiye imposed a 6% tax hike on fuel on Tuesday, after its finance minister said over the weekend that tax moves on fuel and tobacco would not affect the government's inflation goal.

The special consumption tax per liter for fuel has been increased by around 6%, according to a presidential decree in the Official Gazette, which publishes new legislation and official announcements.

The special consumption tax on fuel is adjusted every six months based on the producer price index. With the 5-month cumulative PPI since the last increase standing at 7.12%, the latest tax hike is below the index.

Authorities will announce an update on the PPI on Jan. 3, when it is widely expected to increase, Reuters reported.

Fuel taxes typically have a major impact on inflation.
But Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek said on Sunday that tax hikes for fuel and tobacco in the New Year will be set in a way that does not affect the country's 2025 inflation outlook.
Turkish annual inflation stood at 47.1% in November, higher than expected but at its lowest level since mid-2023. A Reuters poll forecast that it will ease to 26.5% by end-2025, but higher than a central bank prediction of 21%.



Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Riyadh is set to host the third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum from January 7 to 9 at Roshn Front.

Organized in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund, the event will run under the theme "To Discover."

This year’s forum serves as a dynamic platform to highlight new and unique tourist destinations across the Kingdom, offering visitors innovative experiences while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism potential. With over 100 exhibitors, the forum provides an expansive space to explore the latest developments in the tourism sector, spotlight major investment projects, and foster skill development and partnerships to drive tourism growth.

Chief Executive Officer of 4M Event and Chairman of the Forum’s Organizing Committee Eng. Hamza Nasser emphasized the forum’s role in advancing collaboration within the tourism sector. "Through the forum, we aim to promote the beauty of Saudi tourist destinations, enhance cooperation among stakeholders, and raise awareness about investment and development opportunities. This aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030,” he said.
Since its inception, the Saudi Tourism Forum has significantly advanced efforts to promote the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and distinctive tourist sites. Supported by prominent partners and sponsors, the event underscores a shared commitment to developing this vital sector.
The program will feature a variety of seminars and workshops, offering insights into the latest trends and developments in tourism. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with keynote speakers, decision-makers, and industry professionals, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
The forum is expected to attract a diverse audience, including business leaders, investors, officials, and dignitaries, creating fertile ground for collaboration and partnerships.