Foreign companies engaging in import-export operations in Turkey may face unexpected customs-related issues, including goods being held at the border, disputes over tariff classification, and penalties for procedural errors. Without local legal support, these disputes can delay shipments, increase costs, or result in administrative sanctions. In such cases, representation by a qualified Turkish Law Firm is critical for protecting your goods and commercial reputation.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers represent foreign companies in customs litigation and administrative disputes. As a best lawyer firm in Turkey for trade and customs matters, we combine technical legal knowledge with hands-on regulatory experience to resolve cases quickly and effectively.
Types of Customs Disputes Foreign Companies Encounter
- GTIP (tariff code) classification disputes
- Undervaluation or overvaluation of goods
- Certificate of origin or invoice discrepancies
- Missing or incorrect customs documentation
- Goods seizure and fines for non-compliance
- Disputes over exemptions or free zone entries
Our Turkish Law Firm manages both preventive consulting and post-dispute representation in such matters.
Legal Support We Provide in Customs Disputes
- Preparing and submitting administrative objections (itiraz dilekçesi)
- Filing cancellation lawsuits before Turkish Administrative Courts
- Petitioning for suspension of enforcement (yürütmenin durdurulması)
- Filing expert objections and preparing technical defense
- Engaging with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and inspectors
- Negotiating settlements or reclassification with customs authorities
All procedures are handled in Turkish and English under POA-based legal representation.
Customs Penalty Appeals and Litigation
If your company receives a customs fine or goods seizure notice, we take the following legal steps:
- Reviewing all customs entry and declaration documents
- Challenging incorrect tariff classification or pricing allegations
- Filing an objection with Regional Customs Directorate
- Initiating a lawsuit within 30 days at the Administrative Court
- Submitting expert reports or commercial evidence supporting your case
We also provide emergency legal assistance when goods are held during clearance. See our international trade legal support for pre-dispute compliance services.
Common Legal Defenses in Customs Disputes
- Misapplication of GTIP (Customs Tariff Schedule) codes
- Improper value assessments not matching real transaction value
- Technical misunderstanding of product specs or materials
- Lack of willful misconduct or intent to evade customs rules
- Procedural errors in customs notifications
As a Turkish Law Firm with experience in customs court procedures, we prepare all defenses according to precedent and trade legislation.
Preventive Legal Services for Foreign Importers
- Contractual clauses protecting against customs penalties
- Audit of customs agent documentation and declarations
- Import license and regulatory permit checks
- Advising on customs valuation and documentation standards
These preventive measures minimize future exposure. Our contract risk services complement this approach.
Internal Resources You Should Review
- Legal Support for Trade and Customs
- Litigation in Commercial Disputes
- Supply Agreement Enforcement
- Corporate Legal Advisory in Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can a foreign company appeal a customs fine in Turkey? Yes. We represent foreign clients in customs litigation with or without local presence.
- Are customs penalties criminal? Most are administrative but may lead to prosecution in extreme fraud cases.
- What is the time limit to object? Generally 15–30 days depending on the type of notice.
- Do I need a customs lawyer or accountant? We coordinate with both to prepare full legal defense.
- Can your law firm recover seized goods? Yes, if seizure was improper or disproportionate. We act urgently when needed.
Contact Our Turkish Law Firm for Customs Dispute Support
If your company is involved in a customs dispute in Turkey, work with a firm that understands trade law and protects your supply chain. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers deliver fast, reliable, and strategic support in customs litigation and penalty defense. As a recognized best lawyer firm in Turkey for foreign investors, we protect your goods, contracts, and reputation.