New iPhone Duo and 18 Pro Prices Break Records in Turkey

Ender Öztürk

September 10, 2026

The newly unveiled iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro models have reached record-breaking price points in the Turkish market, sparking intense public debate regarding the heavy tax burden on imported technology. Tax expert Ozan Bingöl recently conducted a detailed analysis confirming that more than half of the retail price for these devices consists of mandatory government levies. With the iPhone Duo starting at 230,000 TL and the iPhone 18 Pro priced at 138,000 TL, consumers are effectively paying a premium that includes substantial contributions to the state budget through various tax channels.

The iPhone Duo Tax Burden Exceeds Half the Price

A breakdown of the 230,000 TL price tag for the iPhone Duo reveals the significant impact of the current fiscal structure. The base price of the device, before any taxes, stands at 112,960 TL. Upon this amount, the government applies a 1% Ministry of Culture share, followed by a 12% TRT banderole fee. When the 50% Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV) and 20% Value Added Tax (KDV) are compounded, the total tax load reaches 117,040 TL. This mathematical reality indicates that for every two Turkish Lira spent by a consumer, nearly one lira is directed straight to state coffers.

The iPhone 18 Pro Model Faces Similar Taxation

The more accessible iPhone 18 Pro, which retails for 138,000 TL, follows an identical fiscal path. Its base price is calculated at 67,775 TL before taxes are applied. The cost structure includes a 678 TL Ministry of Culture share and an 8,213 TL TRT banderole fee. After the mandatory 50% ÖTV and 20% KDV are calculated, the total taxes levied on the device amount to 70,224 TL. This structure highlights how the government’s current taxation strategy serves as the primary driver for the high cost of luxury segment smartphones.

Market Prices Impact Consumer Purchasing Behavior

The recent surge in technology pricing is driven not only by currency fluctuations but also by the rigid tax legislation currently in effect. The fact that high-end models have now crossed the 200,000 TL threshold serves as a clear indicator of the rising costs associated with accessing modern digital tools. Industry experts are now closely monitoring how these price levels will influence domestic sales volumes and overall consumer demand throughout the remainder of the year. As affordability becomes a primary concern for many, the long-term sustainability of such high-priced models in the local market remains a subject of ongoing discussion among economists and technology enthusiasts alike.

How do you believe these record-breaking prices and high tax rates will reshape the future of the technology market in Turkey? We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on this fiscal situation in the comments section below.