Turkey - Customs and duties

Turkey is a member of the World Trade Organization and aligns its customs policies with WTO regulations. Turkish customs duties are assessed on an ad valorem basis only. Present customs classification conforms to standardized international nomenclature. Duty-free entry is provided for many types of imports. In 1996, Turkey aligned its tariffs with the EU's common external tariff system. Importers no longer need an import license and import authorization from a bank. A government monopoly, TEKEL, controls alcohol and cigarette imports. Narcotics and weapons are strictly prohibited. Other charges include a value-added tax (VAT) ranging from 0–26%, a 15% municipal tax, and a 10% stamp tax.