Export Customs Procedures in Turkey
To engage in export activities in Turkey, specific customs procedures must be completed. Here are the general steps to initiate and complete export customs procedures in Turkey:
- Become an Exporter:
- As a first step, you need to be a commercial company or entrepreneur to engage in export activities. It is crucial to have an "Exporter" registration number obtained from the Trade Registry Gazette.
- Prepare Customs Declaration:
- Before exporting, you must fill out a Customs Declaration through the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM) or your affiliated chamber of commerce.
- The Customs Declaration is an official document specifying the details of the export transaction and is presented to customs authorities.
- Identification and Classification of Goods:
- The exported goods must be identified, and their classification must be determined according to the Turkish Customs Tariff System.
- Notification of Destination:
- Notify a customs authority of the destination of the exported goods.
- E-Government and Trade Registry Portal for Foreign Trade Transactions:
- Utilize the E-Government platform to submit the necessary applications for export transactions.
- The Trade Registry Portal allows you to track your transactions and obtain necessary documents.
- Arranging Transport and Insurance:
- Organize the transportation and insurance of the goods to be exported. This often involves collaboration with a transportation or logistics company.
- Customs Duties and Other Expenses:
- Consider customs duties, VAT, and any other potential expenses during the export process.
- Customs Inspection and Approval:
- Successfully pass customs inspections and obtain the necessary approvals.
- Export Regulations for Each Country and Commodity:
- Prepare specific documents based on the characteristics of the exported goods and the regulations of the destination country. For example, certain products may require a Health Certificate or Certificate of Origin.
- Customs Exit:
- Once all export procedures are completed, the goods can exit customs, and the transportation process can commence.
It is crucial to be aware of international agreements, such as free trade agreements, that Turkey has with other countries. Compliance with these agreements and accurate documentation preparation are essential for taking advantage of trade benefits. Export processes are continuously updated, so staying informed through the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM) and the Ministry of Customs and Trade's official websites is recommended.
Import Customs Procedures in Turkey
Importing goods into Turkey involves specific customs procedures. Below are the general steps for initiating and completing import customs procedures in Turkey:
- Become an Importer:
- To engage in import activities, you need to be a registered commercial company or entrepreneur. Obtain an "Importer" registration number from the Trade Registry Gazette.
- Prepare Customs Declaration:
- Complete a Customs Declaration through TIM or your affiliated chamber of commerce. This document provides details of the imported goods and is submitted to customs authorities.
- Goods Identification and Classification:
- Identify and classify the imported goods according to the Turkish Customs Tariff System.
- Notification of Import:
- Notify a customs authority about the arrival of the imported goods.
- E-Government and Trade Registry Portal for Foreign Trade Transactions:
- Utilize the E-Government platform to submit import-related applications and follow up on your transactions.
- Arranging Transport and Insurance:
- Arrange transportation and insurance for the imported goods, often in collaboration with a transportation or logistics company.
- Customs Duties and Other Expenses:
- Consider customs duties, VAT, and any other potential expenses associated with the import.
- Customs Inspection and Approval:
- Successfully undergo customs inspections and obtain the necessary approvals for import.
- Import Regulations for Each Country and Commodity:
- Prepare specific documents based on the characteristics of the imported goods and the regulations of the country of origin. Certain products may require additional certificates or licenses.
- Customs Entry:
- Complete all necessary import procedures, and the goods can enter customs for clearance.
It's crucial to be aware of international agreements and regulations governing imported goods. Regularly check the Turkish Ministry of Customs and Trade's official websites for updates on import procedures and regulations.