Turkey’s Ministry of Trade has announced that the regulation prohibiting the sale or advertisement of used motor vehicles within the first 6 months and 6,000 kilometers of initial registration will be extended until January 1, 2026. The ministry emphasized that this decision aims to curb speculative price increases, prevent stockpiling, stop unfair profits, and protect consumers.
In a written statement, the Ministry highlighted its ongoing efforts to restore a fair, competitive, and stable market structure in the automotive sector by combating speculative pricing and stockpiling activities.
As part of this initiative, two key regulations currently remain in effect:
- Used vehicle dealers are prohibited from selling or marketing motorcycles, passenger cars, and off-road vehicles before 6 months and 6,000 kilometers have passed since the vehicle’s first registration.
- It is also forbidden to advertise second-hand vehicles at a price exceeding the manufacturer’s or distributor’s current recommended sale price.
The Ministry reminded the public that these measures had previously been extended to July 1, 2025, but have now been further extended by six months.
Fines and Enforcement
The Ministry reported that as part of inspections and enforcement efforts:
- Authorized car dealers and galleries found in violation of the 6-month/6,000-kilometer rule have been fined approximately 53 million Turkish lira.
- Individuals and businesses that breached the advertisement restriction have been fined about 93 million Turkish lira.
The statement underlined that analyses and market observations showed these regulations have been effective in:
- Preventing speculative pricing,
- Combating hoarding practices,
- Stopping unfair profits,
- And reducing consumer grievances.
Stricter Oversight for All Sellers
The extension applies not only to licensed second-hand vehicle traders but also to individuals and legal entities selling three or more used vehicles in a calendar year, regardless of whether they hold a trade license. Notary offices will continue to block transactions that do not comply with the regulation, and audits will remain in force.
The Ministry concluded by reaffirming its commitment to ensuring price stability in the automotive market, strengthening a fair and balanced market structure, and protecting consumer rights. Additional measures may be introduced if necessary.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök