A detailed illustration of Cappadocia, Turkey, featuring ancient stone dwellings, fairy chimneys, and hot air balloons floating over the landscape at sunrise.
Flag of Turkey

Merch & Corporate Gifting in Turkey

Culture, Logistics & Regulations
Local Time
5:22:19 PM
A detailed illustration of Cappadocia, Turkey, featuring ancient stone dwellings, fairy chimneys, and hot air balloons floating over the landscape at sunrise.
Flag of Turkey

Merch & Corporate Gifting in Turkey

Culture, Logistics & Regulations
Local Time
5:22:19 PM
A detailed illustration of Cappadocia, Turkey, featuring ancient stone dwellings, fairy chimneys, and hot air balloons floating over the landscape at sunrise.
Flag of Turkey

Merch & Corporate Gifting in Turkey

Culture, Logistics & Regulations
Local Time
5:22:19 PM

Intro & Key Facts

Intro & Key Facts

Turkey straddles both Europe and Asia, uses the Turkish lira (TRY) as its currency, and has a diverse, rapidly developing economy. Although Turkey is not in the EU, it has a customs union with the EU for most industrial goods and a variety of trade agreements. For businesses planning to distribute corporate gifts or merchandise in Turkey—be it to employees, partners, or clients—understanding local tax rules, cultural nuances, and logistical details is key to remaining fully tax compliant. This guide outlines essential considerations to ensure successful corporate gifting in Turkey.

Turkey straddles both Europe and Asia, uses the Turkish lira (TRY) as its currency, and has a diverse, rapidly developing economy. Although Turkey is not in the EU, it has a customs union with the EU for most industrial goods and a variety of trade agreements. For businesses planning to distribute corporate gifts or merchandise in Turkey—be it to employees, partners, or clients—understanding local tax rules, cultural nuances, and logistical details is key to remaining fully tax compliant. This guide outlines essential considerations to ensure successful corporate gifting in Turkey.

Turkey straddles both Europe and Asia, uses the Turkish lira (TRY) as its currency, and has a diverse, rapidly developing economy. Although Turkey is not in the EU, it has a customs union with the EU for most industrial goods and a variety of trade agreements. For businesses planning to distribute corporate gifts or merchandise in Turkey—be it to employees, partners, or clients—understanding local tax rules, cultural nuances, and logistical details is key to remaining fully tax compliant. This guide outlines essential considerations to ensure successful corporate gifting in Turkey.

Capital

Ankara

Currency

Turkish lira

Languages

Turkish

Population size

84.3M

Average Monthly Salary

€500

EU

Not Available

Region

Southeast-Europe

Schengen

Not Available

Schengen

Not Available

Gift Giving Norms

Gift-giving more common in personal contexts

Major Corporate Gift Days

Republic Day, New Year

Customs Complexity

High

VAT - Standard Rate

18%

Duty Free Threshold

€22

Ave Duty Rate

5%

index
0%
index
0%

1. Employee Merch vs. Gifts

Under Turkish tax law, non-cash benefits provided to employees can be taxable if they do not serve a genuine business purpose. The Turkish Revenue Administration (GİB, Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı) decides whether merchandise counts as part of an employee’s salary or a necessary business tool.

1.1 Merchandise for Employees

Work-Related (Generally Non-Taxable)

Uniforms & Essential Equipment
Branded apparel, safety gear, or tools required for an employee’s daily tasks are generally not taxed as employee income.

Branded Office Accessories
T-shirts, pens, or mugs with a noticeable company logo, provided uniformly, can be deemed business identity items rather than personal benefits.

Potentially Taxable Benefits

High-Value or Personal-Use Goods
Electronics, premium clothing, or any item that lacks a direct link to work responsibilities may be treated as taxable salary. Employers must then handle additional wage taxes or social contributions.

Frequent Gifting
Repeated gifts might invite scrutiny about disguised remuneration. Seek local tax guidance if planning regular merchandise drops.

1.2 Gifts for Non-Employees (Clients, Partners, Event Attendees)

Tax & Deductibility
Gifts used for promotional or relationship-building purposes are generally tax-deductible. However, high-value or excessively frequent gifts without a legitimate commercial basis could face investigation by tax authorities.

Compliance & Anti-Bribery
Turkey upholds anti-corruption legislation, focusing on public officials and regulated industries. Keep thorough records of more substantial gifts to avoid any potential allegations of improper influence.

1.3 Marketing Merch

Items (like branded T-shirts, tote bags) handed out at fairs or product launches usually count as marketing expenses, provided there’s documentation (invoices, distribution logs) verifying their promotional intent.

2. Shipping, Customs & Duties

Although Turkey is not in the EU, it has a customs union with the EU for most industrial products. Special rules apply for agricultural goods and certain exceptions.



2.1 Shipping

Possible Customs Union Benefits
If merchandise qualifies under the EU-Turkey customs union for industrial goods, no customs duties may apply, though additional taxes or surcharges could still arise. A movement certificate (ATR) can help secure these benefits.

Paperwork
A commercial invoice, HS codes, and a potential ATR certificate (for customs union benefits) are critical. If your items aren’t covered by the customs union (e.g., some agricultural-based goods), standard duties might still apply.



Possible Customs Union Benefits
If merchandise qualifies under the EU-Turkey customs union for industrial goods, no customs duties may apply, though additional taxes or surcharges could still arise. A movement certificate (ATR) can help secure these benefits.

Paperwork
A commercial invoice, HS codes, and a potential ATR certificate (for customs union benefits) are critical. If your items aren’t covered by the customs union (e.g., some agricultural-based goods), standard duties might still apply.



2.2 Importing

Import Duties & Taxes
Goods from non-EU sources typically face customs duties plus Turkish VAT (commonly 18%) on (value + duties + shipping). Additional excise taxes might apply for specific product categories (e.g., tobacco, alcohol).

Documentation
A clear commercial invoice, correct HS codes, and item descriptions remain essential.

2.3 DDP vs. DAP

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)
The sender covers all import taxes/fees, simplifying receipt for the Turkish consignee.

Delivered At Place (DAP)
The recipient is charged for duties/VAT upon arrival, risking delays if they are unaware of these costs.

2.4 With Monday Merch

From our warehouse in Rotterdam, we can arrange shipping to Turkey. We handle the ATR certification where applicable, ensuring you stay tax compliant and minimise customs fees if your merchandise qualifies.

3. Cultural & Local Etiquette

3.1 Gifting customs

Emphasis on Relationships & Hospitality
Turkish business culture values personal rapport. Thoughtful gifts that reflect cultural sensitivity or practicality can help strengthen professional ties.

Gift-Giving Occasions
Religious Holidays
, such as Ramadan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) and Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha), plus New Year are typical gifting times. Some companies also provide items at product launches or major fairs.

Practical vs. Lavish
While gestures are appreciated, overly extravagant gifts can raise suspicions or appear out of step with usual business norms.

Emphasis on Relationships & Hospitality
Turkish business culture values personal rapport. Thoughtful gifts that reflect cultural sensitivity or practicality can help strengthen professional ties.

Gift-Giving Occasions
Religious Holidays
, such as Ramadan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) and Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha), plus New Year are typical gifting times. Some companies also provide items at product launches or major fairs.

Practical vs. Lavish
While gestures are appreciated, overly extravagant gifts can raise suspicions or appear out of step with usual business norms.

4. Sustainability & Local Regulations

4.1 Sustainability & Regulations

Environmental Awareness
Turkey is gradually aligning with various EU environmental standards, though not an EU member. Eco-friendly merchandise or packaging can boost brand image among environmentally conscious recipients.

Product Labelling
Certain items (like electronics or toys) need to meet local or EAC (Eurasian Conformity) marking if distributed widely, especially if also heading to EAEU markets. Be sure to check if Turkish-language labelling or instructions are required.



Environmental Awareness
Turkey is gradually aligning with various EU environmental standards, though not an EU member. Eco-friendly merchandise or packaging can boost brand image among environmentally conscious recipients.

Product Labelling
Certain items (like electronics or toys) need to meet local or EAC (Eurasian Conformity) marking if distributed widely, especially if also heading to EAEU markets. Be sure to check if Turkish-language labelling or instructions are required.



5. HR & Employee Relations Considerations

5.1 HR & Employee Relations

Remote Employees
Collecting private addresses calls for data protection measures. While Turkey’s data laws differ from the EU’s GDPR, adopting similar principles (consent, secure data handling) is prudent.

Onboarding & Retention
Welcome kits (like branded apparel or stationery) are typically non-taxable if modestly valued and aligned with work identity or tasks.



Remote Employees
Collecting private addresses calls for data protection measures. While Turkey’s data laws differ from the EU’s GDPR, adopting similar principles (consent, secure data handling) is prudent.

Onboarding & Retention
Welcome kits (like branded apparel or stationery) are typically non-taxable if modestly valued and aligned with work identity or tasks.



6. Summary and Key Takeaways

6.1 Summary & Takeaways

Employee Items vs. Taxable Benefits
Uniforms or essential gear are non-taxable. Personal or high-value goods risk classification as taxable salary.

B2B Gifting & Marketing
Gifts with promotional or relationship-building aims are deductible, yet maintain records for compliance. Merchandise handed out at events is considered marketing expenses with proper documentation.

Shipping & Customs
EU–Turkey customs union: ATR certificate can remove/reduce duties if goods qualify.
Outside EU: standard duties + 18% VAT over certain value thresholds
Monday Merch Warehouse: we can supply an ATR from Rotterdam if your goods meet the criteria, ensuring a tax compliant process.

Cultural Aspects
Personal rapport
matters. Practical gifts are welcome; excessively lavish items may be frowned upon. Religious holidays and New Year are popular gifting periods.



Employee Items vs. Taxable Benefits
Uniforms or essential gear are non-taxable. Personal or high-value goods risk classification as taxable salary.

B2B Gifting & Marketing
Gifts with promotional or relationship-building aims are deductible, yet maintain records for compliance. Merchandise handed out at events is considered marketing expenses with proper documentation.

Shipping & Customs
EU–Turkey customs union: ATR certificate can remove/reduce duties if goods qualify.
Outside EU: standard duties + 18% VAT over certain value thresholds
Monday Merch Warehouse: we can supply an ATR from Rotterdam if your goods meet the criteria, ensuring a tax compliant process.

Cultural Aspects
Personal rapport
matters. Practical gifts are welcome; excessively lavish items may be frowned upon. Religious holidays and New Year are popular gifting periods.



7. Frequently Asked Questions

7.1 Questions & Answers

Are uniforms taxed for employees?

No, if vital for work duties; personal items may be taxed as a wage benefit.

Do B2B gifts qualify for deductions?

Yes, if they support promotion or client relations. Lavish gifts risk scrutiny.

Cultural nuance?

Turkish business values personal ties—practical, respectful gifts go further than extravagance.

Sending merchandise to Turkey?
Contact us for customised design solutions, shipping logistics, and full support in staying tax compliant from origin to destination.

Sending merchandise to Turkey?
Contact us for customised design solutions, shipping logistics, and full support in staying tax compliant from origin to destination.

Sources
Turkish Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı) – Official tax authority site with guidance on tax obligations.
Ministry of Trade (Ticaret Bakanlığı) – Info on customs regulations, ATR certificates, and trade agreements.
Investment Office of the Presidency of Turkey – Resources for business setup, local compliance, and market details.



Sources
Turkish Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı) – Official tax authority site with guidance on tax obligations.
Ministry of Trade (Ticaret Bakanlığı) – Info on customs regulations, ATR certificates, and trade agreements.
Investment Office of the Presidency of Turkey – Resources for business setup, local compliance, and market details.



Disclaimer
This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify specifics with Turkish authorities or local experts to remain fully tax compliant.

Disclaimer
This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify specifics with Turkish authorities or local experts to remain fully tax compliant.

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