Automotive department data revealed that Special Consumption Tax (SCT) revenues collected from motor vehicles in the first half of 2026 reached a record level. According to the current information shared by car journalist Emre Özpeynirci, despite the contraction in the automotive market, the SCT revenue obtained by the state from this field has exceeded the 359 billion TL threshold.

Although the market shrank by 10.86% in June, the amount of tax collected by the state increased by 26.76% and reached 77.2 billion TL. Thus, a total of 359.8 billion TL SCT revenue was obtained in the first six months of the year.

Although fewer vehicles were sold, the tax burden paid per vehicle increased significantly.

The Contraction in the Market Did Not Obstruct Tax Revenues

Industry representatives are closely monitoring the effects of the decrease in sales volumes on tax collection. Although the market shrank by 8.17% in the first six months, the increase in the SCT burden per vehicle is cited as the main reason for the increase in tax revenues.

Emre Özpeynirci’s analysis proves that the state continues to use the automotive sector as a valuable tax source.

Tax Burden per Vehicle Broke a Record

Data indicate that the contribution of each new vehicle to the Treasury becomes heavier day by day. While the average SCT collected per vehicle in June 2025 was 497 thousand 700 TL, this number jumped to 707 thousand 780 TL in the same month of 2026.

When we look at the general average in the first six months of the year, it is observed that the tax burden increased from 501 thousand 300 TL to 622 thousand 900 TL. This table clearly shows how dominant the share of tax has become in the price of each vehicle purchased by consumers.

Citizens’ costs of owning a new vehicle have increased significantly with tax increases.

Treasury is Rapidly Approaching its Year-End Target

The tax revenue targets that the government expected from the automotive industry reached a significant level at the end of the first six months. The amount of 359.8 billion TL collected constitutes 38% of the target for the whole year.

This shows that tax revenues continue to flow steadily and strongly despite the calm in the market. Experts predict that this structure in the tax system will continue to put pressure on car prices for the rest of the year.

How do you think the tax burden in the automotive industry, remaining at these levels, will affect vehicle sales and the future of the car market? You can share your views and ideas on the subject with us below.