Turkey Abruptly Shelves Contentious Tax Bill Amid Public Outcry

Turkish lawmakers unexpectedly paused discussions on a new tax and fee package aimed at raising funds for the defense industry, following public backlash over some of its key provisions.

AK Party whip Abdullah Guler said talks ended for the time being, with the potential for the bill to be revisited next year, NTV news channel reported.

The package included a particularly controversial proposal that sought an annual fee of 750 liras ($22) from credit cards with limits exceeding 100,000 liras. Local media earlier suggested that tens of thousands rushed to lower their card limits in response to the fee.

The ...