Why it matters:
While the Turkish government touts a slowing inflation trend, alternative data suggests that the economic strain on households remains severe. With rising living costs, the pressure on policymakers to enact relief measures is mounting.
The big picture:
Despite a relative deceleration in inflation, economic hardships continue to grip Turkish households. Türk-İş, Turkey’s largest labor union, attributes the ongoing livelihood crisis directly to rising inflation and increasing living costs.
By the numbers:
- The Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) reported:
- Monthly inflation (March 2025): 2.46%
- Inflation since the end of 2024: 10.36%
- Annual inflation: 38.1%
However, ENAG, an independent research institute, presented a starkly different picture:
- Monthly inflation (March 2025): 3.91%
- Annual inflation: 75.2%
Sector breakdown:
- Food and non-alcoholic beverages: +4.94% (highest monthly increase)
- Housing and utilities: +2.10%
- Communication services: +0.25%
Go deeper:
Economists warn that unless inflation is tamed further, public discontent could intensify, putting additional pressure on the government to implement stronger wage adjustments and social support policies.
Seventh Night of Protests in Turkey
Mojtaba Darabi
