The duty-free shopping limit from abroad has been reduced to 27 euros with the new regulation. The decision will enter into force on December 27, 2024.
The Ministry of Commerce made a new regulation regarding the duty-free shopping limit from abroad. The limit, which was previously 30 euros, was reduced to 27 euros by including transportation costs. The new regulation was announced with the circular numbered 2022/9 published by the General Directorate of Customs and will come into force as of December 27, 2024. This change will have a significant impact for both individual shoppers and e-commerce platforms.
New Duty Free Shopping Limit and Details
According to the new circular, the value of goods arriving from abroad by mail or fast cargo transportation will be calculated based on the price specified in the invoice or sales receipt. However, freight expense (transportation cost) will also be included in this price. If the freight expense is not shown separately on the invoice, a fixed freight charge of 3 euros will be deemed to be added to the total value of the goods.
In this context, the 27 euro limit will be applied to cover both the price of the goods and transportation costs. In cases where a document regarding the price of the goods cannot be submitted, the customs administration will be able to determine the value of the goods itself.
The circular also includes regulations regarding transportation and taxation processes. The goods limit, which was previously determined as 2 thousand pieces within the scope of the “Simplified Customs Declaration”, was reduced to 500 pieces with the new regulation. This change aims to limit transactions made for commercial purposes.
It was also stated that if there is a deficiency or inconsistency in the documents used to determine the value of the goods, the customs administration will step in and determine the value of the goods.
The duty-free shopping limit change may lead to increased costs for individuals making small-scale purchases from abroad. In addition, difficulties are expected in the services offered by e-commerce platforms to consumers in Turkey. In particular, the 27 euro limit is expected to have a more significant impact on low-cost product orders.