Turkey’s new import rules will shake up international online shopping for consumers starting December 27, 2024.
The Turkish government has announced a significant reduction in the duty-free shopping limit for purchases made abroad, lowering the cap from its previous level to just €27. This change will affect popular platforms such as AliExpress, Temu, and Shein, where Turkish shoppers often take advantage of low-cost products and free shipping offers.
A key aspect of the regulation is the introduction of a mandatory €3 shipping fee, even on products that previously included free delivery. Under the new guidelines, if transportation costs cannot be documented, a flat €3 shipping fee will automatically be added to the item price during customs processing. This adjustment marks the end of the free shipping era for international purchases, a factor that may significantly alter buying habits.
For small or low-cost purchases, this additional fee could represent a substantial price increase. For example, a €1 product ordered from an international site will now incur a €3 shipping charge, quadrupling the overall cost for the buyer. This seemingly minor adjustment may lead consumers to reconsider whether ordering inexpensive items from overseas is worth the added expense.
The updated regulations aim to tighten oversight and reduce the influx of low-value imports that bypass formal customs duties. The limit on the number of items that can be imported duty-free will also be restricted to 500 per shipment, ensuring greater control over bulk or resale orders.
Online shoppers who frequently rely on international e-commerce platforms will need to factor in these additional costs when placing orders. The government’s initiative reflects a broader effort to encourage domestic spending and protect local businesses from the growing competition posed by global e-commerce giants.
By introducing these measures, Turkish authorities hope to strike a balance between regulating imports and ensuring fair trade practices. However, for consumers accustomed to inexpensive, cross-border shopping, the new regulations signal a shift that could reshape online buying patterns in the coming years.
