Türkçe
EnglishThe €30 customs exemption for international purchases has been abolished (Official Gazette, 2026).
30-Euro Customs Exemption Abolished in International Shopping (2026 Official Gazette)
The 30-Euro customs exemption previously applied to individual international purchases in Turkey has been completely abolished by a new Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette. This comprehensive legislative change marks the beginning of a new era for e-commerce, customs procedures, and all consumers shopping internationally in Turkey.
Official Gazette Source and Link:
https://www.resmigazete.gov.tr/eskiler/2026/01/20260107-3.pdf
What Did the Exemption Mean?
In the past, individual purchases up to 30 Euros brought into Turkey via mail or fast courier services were granted a customs duty exemption. This practice allowed low-value orders to enter the country tax-free.
What Does the New Regulation Change?
According to the Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette dated January 7, 2026, the 30-Euro exemption for individual international shopping has been entirely removed. From now on, the low price of a product will no longer provide a tax exemption; all products will be subject to customs procedures and taxation.
Relevant Law Article Repealed
With this new regulation, the first paragraph of Article 126 of the "Decision on the Implementation of Certain Articles of the Customs Law No. 4458" has been repealed. This article previously regulated the 30-Euro exemption.
Increase in Customs Procedures
Following the enactment of this decision, it may become necessary to obtain customs brokerage services for products brought from abroad individually. Customs procedures for both courier companies and individual buyers are becoming more detailed.
Effective Date
The provisions specified in the decree are expected to take effect 30 days after the date of publication. Therefore, the removal of the exemption will be implemented after a planned transition period.
What Does This Mean?
Impact on Consumers:
- Tax and customs procedures will now apply even to low-value international orders.
- VAT, customs duty, and other fees will be mandatory for products purchased through online platforms.
- The regulation may require a customs declaration and additional processing for every individual international purchase.
Impact on E-Commerce and the Market:
- It may provide a competitive advantage for local retailers; the tax-free entry of cheap imported products will be prevented.
- While customs revenues are expected to increase, the distinction between commercial and individual shipments may become clearer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When was the 30-Euro exemption abolished?
The new decision was published in the Official Gazette on January 7, 2026, and there is a 30-day period before it enters into force.
Does this decision apply to everyone?
Yes. All products brought by mail or fast courier for individual use will be evaluated under this regulation.
Is there no tax exemption left at all?
Since the 30-Euro exemption for individual international shopping has been removed, customs duties must be paid even for low-value orders.
Conclusion: A New Era Begins in Turkish E-Commerce
The removal of the 30-Euro customs exemption for individual international purchases reshapes e-commerce and international online shopping in Turkey. While this step may increase costs for consumers, it could create a competitive advantage for local retailers. All individual shipments will no longer be exempt from customs procedures and taxation.
Sources:
- Official Gazette – January 07, 2026
- Presidential Decree – Abolition of the 30-Euro Customs Exemption
- Presidential Decree (Amendment to the Implementation Articles of the Customs Law)
