According to the current information shared by automotive journalist Emre Özpeynirci, SCT revenue collected from motor vehicles in Turkey exceeded the level of 282.5 billion TL in the first five months of 2026. Despite the 7.5 percent contraction in the automotive market, the state’s tax revenue from vehicle sales showed a remarkable increase. While the market shrank by 22.6 percent in May, SCT collection increased by 7.9 percent and reached 58.6 billion TL. This information reveals that although the sales volume in the market decreased, the state’s tax burden per vehicle increased steadily throughout the year.

Tax Revenues Increase Rapidly While the Market Shrinks

The automotive segment is going through a difficult period due to the economic conjuncture and market dynamics. Emre Özpeynirci’s analysis shows that, specifically for May, the car market decreased to 86 thousand units within 15 business days. However, this decrease in sales volumes is not reflected in tax items at the same rate. On the contrary, the state’s tax revenue per vehicle follows an upward trend with inflationary pressures and price updates.

While the market continues to shrink, the amount of SCT charged by the state per vehicle is rapidly increasing.

Tax Burden per Vehicle Broke a Record

One of the most striking changes in the industry is observed in the tax price collected by the state from each vehicle sold. While the average SCT amount per vehicle was 486 thousand TL in May 2025, this price increased to 678 thousand TL as of May 2026. This increase, which occurred in just one year, directly affects citizens’ car ownership costs. When we look at the average of the first five months of the year, it is seen that the tax burden per vehicle, which was 502 thousand TL, increased to 603 thousand TL.

A Significant Part of the Budget Goals Have Been Achieved

The automotive sector continues to be a critical revenue item for the state’s 2026 budget objectives. The 282.5 billion TL collected in the first five months corresponds to approximately 30 percent of the annual targeted total SCT revenue. This situation proves that the sector maintains its burden on public finance despite the slowdown in market conditions. It is eagerly awaited to see what course the market will follow in the coming months and what impact tax policies will have on sales volumes.

How do you think the contraction in the automotive market and the increasing tax burden affect your car ownership plans? You can share your opinions and evaluations about betting with us in the comments section below.