Import/Export

Import/Export

Importing and Exporting to Turkey: A Comprehensive and Expert Guide

As a country strategically located between Europe and Asia, Turkey has become a key destination for importing and exporting goods. Given Turkey's diverse economic and trade policies, there are many opportunities for entrepreneurs, businessmen and investors in this country. In this article, we have carefully examined the import and export trends to Turkey, legal and tax considerations, and how to optimize business processes.

Introduction to Import and Export in Turkey

Turkey has become one of the leading countries in international trade in recent years. With access to vast regional and global markets, supportive laws for exports and imports, and a convenient geographical location, the country has provided favorable conditions for trade. Turkey is considered the main destination for importing goods from Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and even Asia and the Pacific, especially for the countries surrounding it.

In this regard, import and export processes require a detailed understanding of the laws, customs procedures, and implementation steps, which will be discussed comprehensively and professionally in the following.

Steps and Processes of Importing to Turkey

2.1. Company Registration and Obtaining a Tax Number

Before starting the import process, it is essential for every business in Turkey to register a company. Business companies must obtain a valid tax number, which is a prerequisite for importing goods. This number is used to conduct business transactions, obtain customs certificates, and pay taxes.

2.2. Obtaining Import Permits

Depending on the type of imported goods, some products require permits from government authorities. For example, medical, pharmaceutical, food, and chemical goods require permits from the Turkish Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Agriculture. Therefore, it is necessary for traders and importers to obtain all relevant permits before importing.

2.3. Import Customs Process

As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Turkey has strict customs regulations for importing goods. Importers must declare their goods to Turkish Customs and after paying customs duties and taxes, importation into the country will be possible. Turkish Customs usually provides online systems for importers to receive information about customs fees and procedures accurately and quickly.

2.4. Quality Assessment and Inspection of Goods

Imported goods must be examined and certified in accordance with Turkish standards. For goods imported into Turkey, various organizations, including the Turkish Standards Institute (TSE), are responsible for examining and establishing the quality of goods. At this stage, imported goods are subject to strict inspections to ensure compliance with the established standards.

2.5. Payment of Value Added Tax (VAT)

According to Turkish law, imported goods are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT). This tax is usually between 1% and 18%, depending on the type of imported goods. Importers must pay this tax when registering the goods with customs.

Steps and Processes of Exporting from Turkey

3.1. Selecting a Target Market

The first step in the process of exporting from Turkey is to identify the target market and analyze the trade conditions of the destination countries. Turkey has several trade agreements with various countries, including the European Union, countries in the Middle East, and Asian countries. These trade agreements allow Turkish exporters to benefit from reduced tariffs and other trade facilities.

3.2. Obtaining the Necessary Certificates for Export

Before starting to export, Turkish exporters need to obtain the necessary licenses from various ministries. For example, goods that include food, pharmaceuticals, or agricultural goods need to obtain a license from the Ministry of Agriculture or the Ministry of Health.

3.3. Export Customs Process

To export goods from Turkey, the goods must pass through Turkish customs. Exporters are required to provide commercial documents such as a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and shipping certificate. After the documents are reviewed and approved by the customs authorities, the goods are cleared from customs and sent to their destination.

3.4. International Transportation

One of the important steps in exporting goods is international transportation. As one of the main transportation destinations in the region, Turkey has an extensive transportation network that includes sea, air, and land transportation. Exporters should use the services of reputable international transportation and shipping companies to ship their goods.

3.5. Payment Terms and Export Contracts In the export process, to ensure timely payment, exporters must establish clear and complete contracts with foreign buyers. These contracts should include details regarding price, shipping terms, and payment methods such as letter of credit (LC) or cash payment.

mport and Export Tax Laws and Regulations in Turkey

4.1. Customs Duties

Turkey charges various customs duties for the import of goods. These duties vary depending on the type of goods and the country of origin. Importers should be fully aware of customs tariffs and related laws to avoid additional costs.

4.2. Value Added Tax (VAT)

VAT is a part of the import process for importing various goods from abroad to Turkey. The standard rate of this tax is 18% for most goods, except in special cases where different rates are determined for certain products (such as medicines or agricultural goods).

4.3. Tax Exemptions

Turkey has exemptions for goods imported specifically from EU member states or countries with preferential trade agreements with Turkey. These exemptions allow importers to be exempt from paying part of the customs duties or additional taxes.

Challenges and Opportunities for Importing and Exporting in Turkey

  1. Challenges and Opportunities for Importing and Exporting in Turkey

5.1. Challenges

• Frequent Changes in Trade Laws: One of the major challenges in the process of importing and exporting to Turkey is the frequent changes in customs and tax laws that require continuous follow-up. • High Competition: As a developed trade market, Turkey faces high competition in various sectors, especially in the field of importing consumer goods and electronic products. • Economic Conditions and Currency Fluctuations: Exchange rate fluctuations in Turkey can have a great impact on import and export costs, especially for those who deal directly in foreign currencies.

5.2. Opportunities

• Access to Regional and Global Markets: Due to its strategic geographical location, Turkey acts as a bridge between Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East, providing many opportunities for international trade. • Government Support Programs: The Turkish government offers special facilities to develop exports and attract imports of goods, including tax exemptions, support in international marketing, and financial facilities.

Conclusion

Imports and exports to Turkey, as one of the vital sectors of the country's economy, require a detailed understanding of the laws,

customs, and familiarity with business processes. Turkey, with its strategic location, is an excellent destination for business transactions, especially for Iranian businessmen and companies. Given the existing opportunities and challenges, a proper understanding of the processes and the use of specialized advice can help importers and exporters to manage their business activities in the best possible way and take advantage of the available economic benefits.

To succeed in trading with Turkey, it is recommended that businessmen use an experienced consultant in the field of imports and exports so that they can effectively exploit market conditions and avoid legal problems and obstacles.

If you need expert advice or more information about importing and exporting to Türkiye, our team is ready to help you by providing comprehensive and expert advice.

Conclusion

Imports and exports to Turkey, as one of the vital sectors of the country’s economy, require a thorough understanding of the laws, customs, and familiarity with business processes. Turkey, with its strategic location, is an excellent destination for business transactions, especially for Iranian businessmen and companies. Given the opportunities and challenges, a proper understanding of the processes and the use of specialized advice can help importers and exporters manage their business activities in the best possible way and take advantage of the available economic benefits.

To be successful in trading with Turkey, it is recommended that businessmen use an experienced consultant in the field of imports and exports so that they can effectively exploit market conditions and avoid legal problems and obstacles.

If you need specialized advice or more information about importing and exporting to Turkey, our team is ready to help you by providing comprehensive and specialized advice.

Specialized import and export services

As a reliable business partner, our company accompanies you in all stages of the import and export process, from beginning to end. With our expertise and long-term experience in this field, we help you to carry out your business processes quickly, reliably and cost-effectively.

Our services in the field of import:

• Specialized import consulting: Providing advice on customs laws and regulations, reviewing the requirements of licenses and standards required for importing goods to Turkey. • Order registration and customs formalities: We carry out all stages of registering goods orders and customs formalities for you and ensure that your imported goods enter the market on time and without any problems. • Transportation management and clearance: From choosing the best transportation method to fast customs clearance of goods, we will always be by your side. • Up-to-date information: We keep you informed of changes in customs and tax laws so that you can make informed business decisions. • Finding new customers: As a strong bridge between you and your target markets, we identify and attract potential customers for your imported products using our extensive business network. Our team is constantly searching for and identifying new markets and introducing you to new customers and reliable suppliers.

Our services in the field of export:

• Target market analysis: Helping to identify suitable markets for exporting your goods and providing export strategies according to the needs and laws of each country. • Preparation of export documents: Preparing and completing all documents required for export, including invoices, certificates of origin, bills of lading and other documents. • International transportation support: Cooperating with the best international transportation companies to ship goods to their destination on time in compliance with all standards. • Payment Terms Consulting: We help you conduct your transactions using safe and secure international payment methods. • Finding New Markets and Target Customers: Our team connects you with new customers and business partners by analyzing global markets and examining the needs of different countries. We attract new customers for your export goods using extensive marketing and networking strategies.

Why our company?

• Experience and Expertise: With years of experience in the field of importing and exporting to Turkey, our team has the ability to provide professional and efficient services at every stage of your business process. • Resolving business problems: We help you solve customs, transportation and international regulatory challenges in the simplest way possible. • Legal and Financial Consulting: With our legal and financial consulting, you can be sure that all your import and export processes are carried out legally and in compliance with financial principles. • Finding customers and business partners: As a strong business intermediary, we introduce you to new customers and provide you with new business opportunities.

We are by your side to easily and professionally import and export your goods, as well as identify and attract new customers for your products.