Exporting goods from Turkey is subject to a detailed legal framework, especially when it comes to strategic goods, dual-use technologies, defense items, and raw materials critical to national security. The Turkish Ministry of Trade, Ministry of Defense, and other regulatory bodies enforce strict controls to prevent unauthorized transfers and misuse.
At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, we provide end-to-end advisory and compliance support for exporters navigating export restrictions in Turkey. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers help clients understand licensing procedures, classification systems, product eligibility, and defense against customs or smuggling penalties.
Legal Basis for Export Controls in Turkey
Export restrictions are grounded in the following legal sources:
- Law No. 1567: Protection of the Value of Turkish Currency
- Customs Law No. 4458 and related secondary legislation
- Law No. 5607: Anti-Smuggling Law (Kaçakçılıkla Mücadele Kanunu)
- Dual-Use Export Control List issued by the Ministry of Trade
- International commitments (UN, EU, Wassenaar Arrangement)
Our Turkish Law Firm ensures exporters are aligned with both national and international export control standards, minimizing legal exposure.
Strategic Goods and Dual-Use Items
Strategic goods in Turkey refer to products that can be used for both civilian and military purposes, known as “dual-use” goods. Common categories include:
- Electronics and semiconductors
- Telecommunication systems and encryption devices
- Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) components
- High-grade steel, carbon fibers, and composite materials
- Chemicals and biological agents
Our best lawyer firm in Turkey advises exporters on licensing needs and prepares the application files required for controlled goods under Export Control Law in Turkey.
Export License System in Turkey
Certain goods cannot be exported without prior approval or an export license. Export licenses are issued by the Ministry of Trade and—depending on the product—require consent from other ministries (Defense, Health, Energy). Licenses may apply to:
- Military hardware and ammunition
- Medical devices and pharmaceuticals
- Rare earth materials and controlled minerals
- Software with encryption or surveillance capacity
Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers assist clients in identifying licensing obligations and liaising with relevant authorities to secure approvals without delay.
Penalties for Violating Export Restrictions in Turkey
Violations of Export Control Law in Turkey may result in heavy administrative and criminal penalties. The consequences depend on the nature and intent of the violation, and may include:
- Confiscation of goods at customs checkpoints
- Revocation of export licenses and trade permissions
- Fines up to hundreds of thousands of Turkish Lira
- Criminal charges under Law No. 5607 for smuggling, punishable by imprisonment
Our Turkish Law Firm defends exporters facing customs seizures or criminal complaints, and initiates legal challenges before customs authorities, administrative courts, and criminal tribunals when necessary.
Customs Enforcement and Red Flag Indicators
Turkish Customs Authorities use risk-based systems to flag suspicious exports. Triggers include:
- Unusual shipping patterns or destination countries under embargo
- Discrepancies between invoice value and market price
- Missing or inconsistent product codes (GTIP)
- Use of intermediaries or shell exporters
Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers assist exporters in clarifying documentation, handling post-clearance audits, and appealing customs detention or seizure decisions.
How to Challenge Export Restrictions or Sanctions
If your export activity is blocked or penalized, legal remedies are available. You may:
- File a written objection (itiraz dilekçesi) with the customs directorate
- Initiate a lawsuit before the administrative court within 30–60 days
- Seek judicial suspension (yürütmenin durdurulması) to unblock shipments
- Submit a revised license application or classification ruling request
Our best lawyer firm in Turkey handles time-sensitive export disputes and works with industry associations, trade chambers, and ministries to find pragmatic solutions.
Internal Legal Resources
- International Trade Consultancy in Turkey
- Turkish Customs Regulations Guide
- Sanctions Compliance in Turkey
- Dual-Use Export Control Law in Turkey
- Foreign Trade Company Formation
FAQ: Export Restrictions and Strategic Goods in Turkey
- Q1: What are strategic goods in Turkey?
Strategic goods include defense items, dual-use technologies, and high-sensitivity materials subject to export licensing. - Q2: How do I know if my product needs an export license?
You must consult the control list published by the Ministry of Trade and check if it matches your product’s technical features. - Q3: Can export licenses be obtained online?
Yes. Many export authorizations are processed via the Turkish Foreign Trade System (BİLGE) and online application portals. - Q4: Can a Turkish Law Firm assist with customs appeals?
Absolutely. Our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers file objections, represent clients in hearings, and challenge fines or seizures. - Q5: What is the penalty for exporting without a license?
Administrative fines, confiscation, blacklisting, and criminal charges under the Anti-Smuggling Law. - Q6: Are exports to sanctioned countries allowed?
No. Turkey abides by certain UN and international embargoes. Exporting to embargoed entities is illegal. - Q7: Can I challenge a customs seizure in court?
Yes. You can file a claim before the administrative court and request return of goods or suspension of the seizure decision. - Q8: Are Free Zone exports exempt from restrictions?
No. Strategic goods exported from Free Zones are still subject to license control. - Q9: How long does an export license take?
Depending on product type, review takes 2–4 weeks. Our lawyers monitor timelines and communicate with relevant units. - Q10: Can foreign investors obtain export licenses in Turkey?
Yes. Turkish-registered foreign companies can apply for licenses with full legal capacity.
Navigate Turkish Export Laws with a Turkish Law Firm
Exporting from Turkey involves more than just logistics—it requires in-depth knowledge of legal classification, licensing, and compliance systems. At ER&GUN&ER Law Firm, we help exporters anticipate and avoid regulatory pitfalls through legal due diligence and direct engagement with Turkish authorities.
Whether you're exporting technology, machinery, chemicals, or dual-use goods, our English Speaking Turkish Lawyers deliver practical, protective, and timely solutions. As the best lawyer firm in Turkey for export compliance and trade law, we ensure that your international shipments remain secure and uninterrupted.