How to Set Prices With Lira Volatility in Turkey
Guide for Turkish merchants dealing with Lira depreciation. Learn to price products to protect replacement margin.
The problem
The Turkish Lira has depreciated significantly since 2021. Merchants who import goods in USD and sell in Lira face continuous margin erosion. The rate you paid for your last shipment is not the rate for your next one.
Why it happens
Persistent Lira depreciation means your replacement cost in Lira increases constantly. The gap between TCMB and free market is small but the speed of change is fast. Import-dependent businesses feel every movement immediately.
How to calculate it step by step
Calculate your replacement cost in USD at today's rate, not your original purchase rate.
Use the free market rate (doviz bureau), not just TCMB, for realistic pricing.
Factor in your payment channel: Havale, Papara, and crypto each give different net amounts.
Set a minimum safe price that covers your next restock, not just your last one.
Update prices weekly. During rapid depreciation, update every 2-3 days.
Common mistakes
Pricing based on your purchase cost instead of replacement cost.
Updating prices only monthly during periods of rapid Lira depreciation.
Not factoring in Papara or Havale processing differences.
Assuming TCMB rate is the rate you'll actually get when buying dollars.