Alanya Shopkeepers Revolt: They Shut Down Their Shutters

Before the new tourism season kicks off, trademark lawyers raided businesses selling imitation products in Alanya. Due to the raid conducted with the police, many shopkeepers closed their shutters, while others protested this action. The raid by trademark lawyers, accompanied by the police, on shopkeepers selling imitation products in Alanya stirred up the local tradespeople. The focus on shopkeepers selling imitation products instead of the facilities producing them caused reactions, and during the inspection, Ali İhsan Özdemir, Vice President of Alanya Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (ALESO), came to the aid of the shopkeepers. Özdemir stated, "Every season, trademark lawyers raid shopkeepers. The shopkeepers who sell this product pay taxes, contribute to social security, and provide health insurance for their employees. Instead of targeting the small businesses, why don't these lawyers raid the facilities producing the products? The related ministries should find a solution. If these shopkeepers can't work today, who will pay taxes to the state?"