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Are you considering importing from Turkey to Canada? With Turkey’s manufacturing sector growing and the Turkish Lira offering competitive pricing for foreign buyers, now is a strategic time to explore this trade route. Whether you are a small business owner looking for unique textiles or an individual interested in Turkish goods, this guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision.
While the Canadian dollar fluctuates against major currencies, it remains strong relative to the Turkish Lira, allowing Canadians to purchase high-quality goods, from clothing to machinery, at attractive prices. However, navigating customs, duties, and regulations is essential to avoid unexpected costs. Read on to find out exactly what you need to know about importing from Turkey into Canada.
About Import from Turkey to Canada
Trade relations between Canada and Turkey are robust and growing. In recent years, bilateral merchandise trade has reached approximately $3 billion CAD annually.
Turkey is a significant partner for Canada, offering a diverse range of high-quality products. While industrial goods like iron and steel are major components of this trade, consumer goods are increasingly popular.
Key Trade Facts:
- Top Imports: Canada primarily imports iron and steel, motor vehicles, machinery, textiles (clothing and rugs), and foodstuffs (dried fruits and nuts) from Turkey.
- Trade Status: Turkey and Canada conduct trade under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. Most Turkish goods enter Canada under “Most-Favored-Nation” (MFN) tariff treatment.
- Volume: In 2023, Canada’s merchandise imports from Turkey were valued at roughly $1.8 billion CAD, highlighting the strong demand for Turkish manufacturing.
Products that Canada Imports from Turkey
Turkish manufacturers are world-renowned for quality, particularly in textiles and agriculture. The most notable products imported include:
- Clothing and Apparel (Denim, knitwear)
- Home Textiles (Towels, bedding)
- Furniture and Decor
- Carpets and Hand-Woven Rugs
- Foodstuffs (Dried apricots, figs, hazelnuts, and lentils)
- Iron, Steel, and Construction Materials
- Automotive Parts
Required Documents to Import from Turkey to Canada
For commercial imports, the process requires attention to detail. If you are a business, you must obtain a Business Number (BN) with an import/export account from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) before you ship anything.
General Documents Required:
- Commercial Invoice: Must outline the buyer, seller, description of goods, value, and country of origin.
- Bill of Lading: The transport document provided by the carrier.
- Certificate of Origin: Required to verify where the goods were made, which determines the tariff rate.
- Packing List: Details the contents of each package.
For detailed guidance on logistics, you may want to research shipping companies in Turkey that specialize in North American routes.
Textiles Import from Turkey to Canada
Turkey is a global hub for textiles, but importing them into Canada comes with specific duties.
1. Customs Duties: Unlike some electronics, textiles and clothing often attract high duty rates. Without a specific free trade agreement, apparel duties can range from 17% to 18%, plus the standard GST (5%) and applicable provincial taxes (PST/HST).
2. Permits: While Canada has relaxed many textile import permit requirements, you must still ensure your goods comply with labeling requirements (e.g., bilingual labels, fiber content).
3. Tariff Classification: You must determine the correct HS Code (Harmonized System) for your items. A 10-digit tariff classification number is required for the customs declaration.
Food
Importing food is strictly regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Commercial importers must hold a “Safe Food for Canadians” (SFC) license.
For dairy products, meats, and processed foods, specific documentation is required to prove safety standards. Note that homemade food sent by mail is generally not exempt from these strict regulations and may be confiscated if it doesn’t meet commercial labeling and safety standards.
Cut Flowers
Fresh cut flowers can often be imported if they are free of soil, roots, and pests. However, many species require a Phytosanitary Certificate issued by Turkish authorities to enter Canada. Always check the CFIA’s Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) before shipping plants.
Medicine
Regulations for medicine differ for visitors versus residents. Canadian residents generally cannot import prescription drugs by mail.
However, visitors to Canada are permitted to bring a single course of treatment or a 90-day supply of prescription medication for personal use. This must be in retail packaging and accompanied by a prescription or a letter from a physician.
Antiques and Artwork
Antiques: Items over 100 years old may be duty-free but require proof of age.
Artwork: Original paintings, drawings, and sculptures are generally duty-free (Chapter 97 of the Customs Tariff). However, GST/HST still applies to the value of the artwork. You should have a bill of sale or invoice to prove the value.
Jewelry
Turkey is famous for its gold and silver craftsmanship. When importing jewelry, duties may apply depending on the materials used. Always declare the full value to avoid seizure. Precious metals and stones have specific valuation rules at the border.
Cannabis
Warning: Although cannabis is legal in Canada, it is a serious criminal offense to transport it across the border without a permit issued by Health Canada. These permits are rarely granted for personal use. Do not attempt to import or export cannabis products.
Import Duties from Turkey to Canada
Understanding the “De Minimis” threshold is crucial for small imports:
- Commercial/Mail Imports: Goods valued at $20 CAD or less are generally duty and tax-free.
- Gifts: Gifts sent from a friend/relative abroad valued at $60 CAD or less are duty and tax-free.
- Personal Exemptions (Travel): If you are returning from a trip to Turkey of 48 hours or more, you can claim up to $800 CAD duty-free.
For commercial shipments over $20, you will likely pay:
- Duty: Depends on the product (e.g., 0% for antiques, ~18% for clothing).
- GST/HST: 5% to 15% depending on your province of residence.
To calculate your estimated costs, you can consult the official CBSA Duty and Taxes Estimator or the Canada Tariff Finder.
