Apple Halts Product Sales Amid Turkey Inflation Concerns... Customer Confusion

AppleInsider, Citing MacReport Coverage

'iPhone 13 Pro' product listed on the Turkish online Apple Store. Currently, it is unavailable for purchase. Photo by Apple Store capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Minyoung Cha] Apple has suspended sales of its products both online and offline in Turkey amid concerns over inflation.

On the 24th (local time), IT specialty media AppleInsider, citing MacRumors, reported that Apple Stores in Turkey have stopped selling products.

At offline retail stores, customers were informed that sales would resume once the exchange rate stabilizes, causing some confusion. The online store also displays a message stating "Currently Not Available" when attempting to purchase products.

Foreign media analyze that Apple has avoided directly stating the reason but has halted sales due to the country's economic crisis.

This comes as the US Biden administration continues its interest rate hike policy, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan advocates for rate cuts. He has declared an "economic independence war," ignoring criticism and opposition from the financial investment sector.

The value of the Turkish Lira is hitting new lows. According to US CNBC, on the 22nd (local time), the Lira fell to 13.45 per dollar, a sharp decline from 5.6 Lira two years ago. It has dropped 42% just this year. Inflation in Turkey is also approaching 20%.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.