Paid Mask Sales Have Started — How Much Do Masks Cost?
Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, masks have been a major supply challenge for citizens, and now the situation has changed. Masks that were previously provided free of charge are now being sold for a fee. Paid mask sales have begun — below you can find details about where people can obtain masks and how much they cost.
As in the rest of the world, masks remain one of the most important protections against the coronavirus in our country. Until recently, masks were distributed to citizens free of charge through pharmacies. Starting now, those masks will also be available for purchase.
Paid Mask Sales Have Begun!
Paid mask sales have begun. As of May 9, surgical masks are being sold across Istanbul through pharmacies, medical supply stores, online platforms, and supermarkets. They are sold in packs of 50, priced at 42.50 TL per pack, which equals 0.85 TL per mask. The paid mask program is planned to expand to supermarkets in other provinces starting Monday.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced the official start of paid mask sales following the cabinet meeting on May 4. Masks, which became indispensable in daily life during the coronavirus pandemic, will now be more widely available through supermarkets and other retail channels. To prevent consumer hardship when purchasing masks, a maximum price cap has been implemented.
Deniz Alkaç, Board Member Responsible for Purchasing at a national supermarket chain, says they prioritize hygiene and safety. Masks are supplied to customers in their original boxes, with each box containing 50 masks. Boxes are sold at 42.50 TL each, equivalent to 0.85 TL per mask. From next week, sales in 10-pack formats will also begin. To ensure fair access, each person may purchase up to three packs of masks. Demand remains high, but there is no stock problem, and they are working closely with suppliers to maintain availability.