New Order in Digital Trade: Ministry Restricts Advertising and Data Usage

With the regulatory amendment prepared by the Ministry of Trade and published in the Official Gazette entering into force today, a profound era of transparency and consumer safety has officially commenced within the digital commerce ecosystem. Stricter regulations introduced for advertising and application domains, which had become susceptible to abuse amidst increasing digitalization, encompass a broad spectrum ranging from deceptive discounts to the utilization of artificial intelligence.

Shield for Child Data and Targeted Ad Oversight

Critical boundaries have been drawn regarding consumer rights and data privacy through the new regulation, significantly strengthening the digital monitoring mechanism.

■Profile-based targeted advertisements created by analyzing children's personal data and online behaviors have been strictly banned.

■A mandatory disclosure requirement has been imposed for the general public, necessitating clear information on the criteria behind targeted ads and how users can modify these settings.

■Transparency has been increased regarding deceptive discount practices and manipulative advertising strategies powered by artificial intelligence.

Mandatory Disclosure for the Influencer Economy

The marketing activities of social media influencers have been connected to an official supervision mechanism, ending the ambiguity that has persisted for a long time.

■It is now mandatory to use the terms "advertisement" or "promotion" in posts where benefits are received in exchange for a product, service, discount, or event.

■The sanction authority against hidden advertising practices lingering in grey areas has been expanded.

■Commercial communications made by influencers via brands have become more easily distinguishable by consumers.

As the integration of digitalization into automotive retail and heavy industry marketing continues rapidly, these new regulations compel brands to reconstruct their advertising strategies. Particularly in online spare parts sales or digital showroom activities, data usage and influencer collaborations are now subject to much stricter scrutiny. While this may increase marketing costs in the short term, it will ultimately strengthen consumer trust and brand reputation, contributing to a sustainable sales curve.