Turkish travel agencies are voicing concerns about a new draft law that would regulate international online accommodation platforms. This legislation aims to establish a legal framework for foreign digital accommodation platforms operating in Turkey and is expected to be submitted to parliament soon.
Hasan Eker, the vice chairman of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB), highlighted that Turkish agencies face a tax burden of around 25%, whereas the proposed legislation would allow foreign online platforms to operate under a 5% tax rate. Eker warned that this tax disparity could lead to a pricing advantage for foreign platforms, prompting consumers to shift their bookings away from Turkish agencies and potentially harming competition in the market.
Eker stressed the risks of monopolization, suggesting that if foreign platforms dominate, they could dictate prices, potentially purchasing hotel rooms at lower rates and reselling them at higher prices. The association’s primary demand is for equal regulatory treatment of both domestic and foreign agencies.
Under the draft legislation, foreign platforms would need to obtain a permit from the Culture and Tourism Ministry and establish a local representative in Turkey to operate. Eker emphasized the importance of ensuring that foreign platforms comply with the same regulations that local agencies must follow.
