Why did Türkiye impose foreign shopping limits?

The value limit for non-commercial items sent to individuals in Türkiye via international mail or express cargo has been reduced from 150 euros ($163.7) to 30 euros, according to a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette.

Reason behind decision

The Trade Ministry stated that this decision follows extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including relevant ministries, tradesmen, chambers of commerce and industry, and consumer organizations.

The ministry highlighted that the influx of low-quality goods intended for commercial purposes via mail or express cargo has led to numerous complaints from consumers, manufacturers, sellers, tradesmen, merchants, and small and medium-sized businesses. These complaints cited sales, production, and employment losses due to the rapid increase in such imports.

Effective in 15 days

The updated value limit applies to non-commercial items sent to individuals in Türkiye via international mail or express cargo, which are subject to a simplified customs declaration by the postal administration and express cargo companies authorized by the ministry. The limit has been lowered from 150 euros to 30 euros.

“For items declared under normal procedures without a simplified declaration by the postal administration and authorized express cargo companies, the value limit has also been adjusted to 30 euros. Furthermore, the single and fixed tax rates for non-commercial items sent to individuals and items brought by passengers have been increased.

The rates have risen from 20% to 30% for items coming directly from EU countries, and from 30% to 60% for items coming from other countries. These changes will take effect in 15 days,” the ministry noted.