Have you considered exporting to Turkey? Here’s a stat that might just convince you: nearly 64% of the Turkish population purchased a product or service online in 20221. In a country of over 86 million people2, that’s a lot of opportunities for savvy e-commerce businesses looking to target new markets.
All you need is an international shipping partner and you’ll be ready to cash in! Read on as we explore how to export to Turkey, including key consumer insights, market trends, and customs advice.
MARKET OVERVIEW
86 million people(3)
As of 2023, the median age of the Turkish population is 31.8 years(4).
E-commerce is growing
The coronavirus pandemic altered the behavior of many Turkish shoppers, nudging them online. In the last quarter of 2022, e-commerce transactions in the country were up 37% compared to the same quarter in the previous year(5).
Mobile commerce is big business
Half of all e-commerce transactions in Turkey take place on mobile devices(6). Apps are particularly popular amongst consumers there (over mobile browsers), and are used in 63% of m-commerce transactions(7).
Where does Turkey import from the most?
DOING BUSINESS IN TURKEY: CONSUMER TRENDS
Where do consumers in Turkey shop online?
Online marketplaces can be a helpful gateway for cross-border businesses wishing to sell to a new country for the first time.
Leading marketplaces in Turkey, Sept-Nov 2023 (by traffic share)9
- trendyol.com: 37.4%
- hepsiburada.com: 22.7%
- amazon.com: 11.4%
- pttavm.com: 2.8%
- aliexpress.com: 2.4%
What are they buying?
How do Turkish consumers like to pay for their online purchases?
After all, e-commerce shoppers are more likely to abandon their carts if they cannot pay using their preferred payment method.
Leading shopping holidays in Turkey
EXPORTING TO TURKEY: CUSTOMS ADVICE
Required documentation
When shipping internationally, there are several pieces of documentation commonly required to clear your goods through customs smoothly and help authorities determine what import taxes and duties are due:
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin
- Export and Import Licenses
- Export Packing List
- Insurance Certificate
This dedicated guide goes into detail on each document, including what information you’ll need to complete it.
Customs clearance
In May 2022, Turkish authorities reduced the value threshold for simplified customs clearance on behalf of individuals (B2C imports) from 30 kg, €1500 to 30 kg, €150 (medicines/drugs excluded).
For shipments under €150, a tax rate of 18% for EU member countries and 30% for non-EU countries will be applied. For shipments over €150, broker clearance is required.
Prohibited and restricted commodities
Shipping costs
Unless exempt, all imported commercial goods are subject to customs duties and taxes based on their Harmonized System (HS) Code tariff classification. Generally speaking, it is the Importer of Record (i.e. either your business or your logistics carrier) who will pay the import duty and tax.
You can find the correct HS code for your shipment easily via DHL’s MyGTS – a free, user-friendly platform that will help you navigate all aspects of international shipping. This includes calculation of Landed Cost for goods in any country – that is your product cost, duties & taxes, and freight charges – to enhance your pricing strategy and give your customers transparency over shipping fees.
Useful resources
- Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Trade: https://www.trade.gov.tr/customs-formalities
- International Trade Administration, Turkey Country Guide: https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/turkey-customs-regulations
DHL’S expert tips for exporting to Turkey
Thinking of exporting to Turkey?
You’re in the right place! We know that the above guidelines may seem a little overwhelming, but that’s where partnering with DHL will pay off. As international shipping experts, we’ll support you through all customs procedures so that your shipment avoids delays. Sell to the world with DHL!
Start your journey here
