Legal Requirements for Textile Manufacturing in Turkey: A Guide for European Fashion Brands
- Büşra Dalman
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 24
For European fashion brands seeking production opportunities abroad, understanding the legal requirements for textile manufacturing in Turkey is essential. While the country offers significant economic and logistical advantages, compliance with EU and Turkish regulations is crucial to avoid customs delays, penalties, and contractual issues.
This article outlines the legal framework, documentation, and risk management strategies needed for a secure and efficient sourcing process.
Customs Documentation and Legal Requirements for Textile Manufacturing in Turkey
When importing goods from Turkey to the EU, certain documents are required to benefit from the Customs Union agreement and avoid unnecessary duties:
ATR Movement Certificate: Required for most industrial goods like ready-to-wear apparel. It confirms the goods are in free circulation between Turkey and the EU and allows duty-free importation.
EUR.1 Certificate: Used only for goods outside the Customs Union scope (e.g. agricultural products, certain raw materials). Not typically used for standard apparel.
EORI Number: All EU-based importers must have an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number to legally import goods into the EU.
Commercial Invoice: Legally required for customs clearance. It must include product descriptions, HS codes, declared values, Incoterms, and both buyer/seller information.
Pro Forma Invoice: Acceptable only for non-commercial shipments like samples. It is not valid for customs clearance.
If you're also budgeting for your launch, you might want to check this out: Clothing Brand Startup Costs in Turkey vs. the US
Choosing the Right Incoterms and Legal Requirements for Textile Manufacturing in Turkey
Incoterms determine legal responsibilities between the buyer and the supplier. European brands must clearly specify these terms in every agreement:
EXW (Ex Works): The buyer handles all transport and legal formalities from the Turkish factory.
FOB (Free on Board): The supplier covers export customs clearance and loading onto the vessel.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): The Turkish supplier is legally responsible for all steps, including import VAT and duties in the EU.
Failure to define Incoterms can cause disputes over liability, delivery delays, and unexpected costs.
VAT, Duties, and Legal Taxation Issues in Textile Manufacturing in Turkey
Import VAT is payable when goods enter the EU—even if customs duties are waived under the ATR.
EU buyers can reclaim VAT depending on national regulations, but the seller must provide accurate invoicing.
Misclassification of goods (wrong HS code) can trigger inspections or fines.
Ensure all documents are synchronized (invoices, certificates, packing lists) and use accurate HS codes.
Regulatory Compliance and Legal Requirements for Textile Manufacturing in Turkey
Textile goods manufactured in Turkey and sold in the EU must meet several legal standards:
REACH Regulation: EU law restricting harmful chemicals in textiles. Brands must ensure their Turkish manufacturers comply, particularly with Annex XVII limits.
OEKO-TEX Certification: Not legally required, but widely accepted as proof of compliance with chemical safety standards.
Labeling Requirements: EU law mandates clear, durable labeling for fiber content. While care labels are not mandatory, they are highly recommended.
Want to make sure your product specifications are communicated correctly from day one? This guide might help: What is a Tech Pack?
Contracts and Legal Protections in Textile Manufacturing in Turkey
Before engaging a Turkish manufacturer, European brands should:
Sign a written manufacturing agreement that includes IP protection, quality standards, lead times, penalty clauses, and dispute resolution methods.
Clarify jurisdiction: Turkish law applies by default unless otherwise agreed. Consider international arbitration if needed.
Verify company registration: Check if the supplier is a registered legal entity in Turkey, and confirm tax ID and bank details to avoid fraud.
Legal due diligence reduces the risk of payment disputes, delays, and quality nonconformities.
Legal compliance is a foundational element of successful textile manufacturing in Turkey. From customs documentation to regulatory alignment and supplier contracts, addressing the legal requirements for textile manufacturing in Turkey protects your business from costly liabilities and operational setbacks.
With the right planning and due diligence, textile manufacturing in Turkey can be a strategic advantage for European fashion brands looking for compliant, quality-driven production.
Let’s Talk
Read the guide and wondering how to confidently navigate customs procedures, invoice requirements, or certification paperwork when producing in Turkey for the EU market?
At Ayder Textile, we support fashion brands not only in manufacturing—but also in managing the behind-the-scenes essentials that keep production smooth and compliant.
From navigating ATR documents and customs declarations to issuing proforma invoices and ensuring EU-standard labeling, we help you avoid surprises and stay in control.
📩 Reach out to explore how we can assist. We’re happy to walk you through the logistics, review your paperwork setup, or advise on compliant production strategies for the European market.
Büşra DalmanAuthor of the Article / Customer Representative
Ayder Textile
📞 +90 212 550 74 40
📍 No: 17, Şehit Hidayet Yılmaz Street, Fevzi Çakmak Avenue, 15 Temmuz Neighborhood, Bağcılar, Istanbul 34212, Turkey
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