COVID-19 Policy Measures and Reflections on the Turkish Economy and Foreign Trade

Abstract

The first COVID-19 case in Turkey was seen on March 11, 2020. Various measures have been taken and restrictions have been introduced to reduce the rate of spread since then. International and intercity transport of goods and passengers were limited and/or stopped and curfews/restrictions were applied. The activities of the service sector were regulated/stopped, and their activities were allowed on the condition that certain criteria were met. Working style and hours in public and private sector were designed. The restrictions on economic and social life were gradually lifted. In addition to the loss of people and workforce caused by the pandemic, the reflections of the measures put in effect in terms of economic concerns on national economy have been clearly observed. In this chapter, the economic effects of the pandemic process in Turkey; the short-term results in selected/main indicators, like inflation, unemployment, GDP, trade, etc.; and economic recovery due to policy measures will be evaluated.