Türkiye doubles taxes on foreign online purchases

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a new decision, published in the Official Gazette, significantly increasing taxes on products ordered from foreign websites.

The tax rates have been raised by 66% to 100%, and the shopping limit has been reduced to 30 euros ($32.82). This move follows recent hints from Trade Minister Omer Bolat about upcoming regulations concerning online shopping through platforms like Temu and AliExpress.

The Ministry of Trade’s action was prompted by the growing popularity of Temu in Türkiye, following the trend set by AliExpress.

Bolat stated, “We are closely monitoring the situation. Necessary decisions have been made, and you will see them soon.” Shortly after this statement, the new regulation detailing the tax increases was published.

Key changes in new regulation

Shopping limit restrictions: The overseas fast cargo shopping limit has been reduced from 150 euros to 30 euros, effective in 15 days.

Tax rates for EU and non-EU countries: According to the decision, the new tax rates for items delivered via postal or fast cargo services to individuals, not exceeding 30 euros and not in commercial quantities, are as follows:

• 30% for items from EU countries
• 60% for items from other countries
• An additional 20% tax for items listed in (IV) of the Special Consumption Tax Law No. 4760, on top of the above rates.

Previously, the tax rate for products from the EU was 18%, and for those from other countries, it was 30%, resulting in a tax increase of 66% to 100%.

Procedures for purchases exceeding 30 euros: For items exceeding 30 euros but not exceeding 1500 euros and not in commercial quantities, all customs procedures and declarations must be followed. Fast cargo companies meeting the conditions set by the Trade Ministry can be authorized as indirect representatives.