Nike halts online orders in Türkiye due to new customs regulations

Nike announced a suspension of all online orders from Türkiye on Friday due to recent changes in the country’s customs regulations. The company stated on its website that it is currently assessing the impact of these new rules on customer orders and delivery.

Nike’s decision to halt online orders is a direct response to these regulatory changes. The company is currently unable to guarantee timely and smooth delivery of orders due to the potential complications introduced by the new customs rules.

Nike has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to customers and is committed to closely monitoring the situation. Updates on the status of online orders and further details will be available on Nike’s Help page.

Türkiye's regulations led Nike to halt all online orders

On August 6, 2024, the Turkish government published a new decree in the Official Gazette that significantly alters the customs regulations for international shipments. The decree, titled "Decision on Amending Certain Provisions of the Customs Law No. 4458," introduces the following key changes:

1. Reduction in Duty-Free Limit: The duty-free threshold for international shipments has been reduced from 150 euros to 30 euros. This means that purchases exceeding 30 euros will now be subject to customs duties and import procedures.
2. Increased Customs Duties: The new regulations increase customs duties on international orders. For goods originating from European Union countries, the duty has been raised from 20% to 30%. For items from other countries, the rate has been increased from 30% to 60%.
3. Additional Taxes: Products not exempt from Special Consumption Tax will now incur an additional 20% Special Consumption Tax.
4. Pharmaceutical Exemption: The duty-free limit for pharmaceuticals remains set at 1500 euros.

The new regulations are set to take effect on August 21, 2024 as the changes aim to address issues related to the impact of international e-commerce on Turkish businesses and the economy.

Türkiye hosts more Nike stores than any country in Europe with 59 active locations. It is also one of only five countries in Europe with more than 30 Nike shops.

Given this extensive retail footprint, the new customs regulations could have a substantial impact on both Nike's operations and its customers in the region.

Trade Minister Omer Bolat stated that the new measures are designed to protect local industries and reduce foreign exchange losses resulting from increased imports. However, experts have raised concerns that these regulations may lead to higher prices for consumers and reduced competition in the market.