ISTANBUL, March 5, 2026 – Turkey’s government has implemented a new mechanism to manage fluctuations in fuel prices, adjusting special consumption taxes (ÖTV) on gasoline, diesel, and LPG in response to changes in international oil prices and exchange rates. The move, detailed in a Presidential Decree published today, aims to mitigate the impact of global market volatility on consumers, but will see a shift in how tax reductions are applied. This adjustment to the akaryakıt fiyatına yüzde 75 eşel mobil uygulaması – or “mobile tiered” system – is already drawing attention from economists and drivers alike.
Under the new system, which took effect March 2, 2026, the ÖTV on fuels will be reduced by up to 75 percent of any increase in refinery exit prices linked to international oil price hikes or currency fluctuations. Conversely, if refinery exit prices fall, the ÖTV will be increased by up to 75 percent of the decrease. However, a key limitation is that any ÖTV increase will not exceed the levels in place on March 2, 2026. This represents a change from previous practice, where the full amount of any tax reduction was applied to fuel prices.
The Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) will base the adjustments on domestically refined fuel exit prices as of March 2, 2026. This means that the system will react to changes in the international market, but with a built-in buffer designed to prevent extreme price swings. The regulation also applies to imported fuel products, with ÖTV calculated using the same principles.
How the New System Works
Previously, when fuel prices rose, the government would reduce the ÖTV by the full amount of the increase, effectively absorbing the cost. Now, the government will only offset 75 percent of the increase through ÖTV reductions, meaning consumers will bear a larger portion of the price hike. For example, if the refinery exit price of gasoline increases by 100 TL, the ÖTV will be reduced by a maximum of 75 TL. The remaining 25 TL will be reflected in the price at the pump.
Current ÖTV limits stand at 13.90 TL per liter for diesel and 14.82 TL per liter for gasoline, according to reports. Odatv reports that the system is designed to protect consumers from the full impact of price increases, but also to allow the government to recoup some revenue when prices fall.
Impact on Consumers and the Economy
The shift to a 75 percent offset is a significant change in policy. While the government argues it provides a more sustainable approach to managing fuel prices, some analysts suggest it could lead to higher prices for consumers, particularly during periods of sustained oil price increases. The effectiveness of the system will depend heavily on global oil market trends and the stability of the Turkish Lira.
The regulation covers a range of fuels, including unleaded gasoline types, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The government’s decision comes as Turkey continues to grapple with high inflation and economic uncertainty. Fuel prices are a sensitive issue for Turkish consumers, and the government has frequently intervened in the market to try and control costs.
A Look Back at Previous Measures
Turkey has a history of using ÖTV adjustments to manage fuel prices. The current system builds on previous “mobile tiered” systems, but with the key difference being the reduced percentage of tax offset. Sondakika.com notes that the government is attempting to strike a balance between protecting consumers and maintaining fiscal stability.
The EPDK will also determine base prices for fuels that are not currently produced domestically, ensuring a consistent framework for ÖTV calculations across all fuel types. This is intended to provide greater transparency and predictability in the market.
The government has not yet released detailed projections on the potential impact of the new system on fuel prices. However, officials have indicated that they will closely monitor the market and make further adjustments as needed. The next key date for monitoring will be as international oil prices and exchange rates fluctuate in the coming weeks and months.
For consumers seeking the latest information on fuel prices and regulations, the EPDK website remains the official source. The government has also pledged to provide regular updates on the implementation of the new system.
As global energy markets remain volatile, Turkey’s new fuel tax mechanism represents a significant policy shift. The coming months will be crucial in determining its effectiveness and impact on both consumers and the Turkish economy.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute financial or economic advice.
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