The Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) has firmly rejected allegations that it selectively collects the cheapest prices from the internet to manipulate the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. TÜİK stated that it calculates the CPI independently and scientifically, without any influence from external requests or instructions.
TÜİK Clarifies the Web Scraping Method
In response to claims that TÜİK intentionally selects the lowest-priced products or directs regional offices to do so, the institution emphasized that such accusations are completely baseless. TÜİK highlighted that the data collected via web scraping accounts for only 5% of the total CPI data.
Key points from TÜİK’s statement include:
- The data collection process is fully automated and developed in collaboration with TÜBİTAK over the past four years.
- The system gathers data from pre-determined websites and products daily, without allowing manual input from regional offices.
- Products to be monitored are selected through comprehensive analysis in December each year, and no changes are made throughout the year.
TÜİK vs. Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (İTO) Index
TÜİK also addressed the comparison between the CPI and the İTO Cost of Living Index for wage earners in Istanbul. It emphasized that the two indices are methodologically different, covering distinct base years, classification methods, and income groups.
In 2025, İTO will introduce a new index, the Istanbul Consumer Price Index, with revised methodologies and a new base year.
Conclusion
TÜİK reiterated that its CPI calculation adheres to international standards and is based on scientific and technical autonomy, with no external interference. The allegations of manipulating data by selecting the cheapest products are unfounded and misleading.
Source: Bloomberght/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök