Product Certification in Türkiye: Key Regulations and Updates in 2025
As of 2025, several important changes in Türkiye’s product certification landscape are directly impacting both local producers and international businesses exporting or operating in the country. From expanded EU organic requirements to updated safety regulations, here’s what entrepreneurs and exporters must know to navigate the certification system in Türkiye effectively.
Expanded Measures in EU Organic Certification
Türkiye has introduced stricter requirements for certain products under the EU Organic Certification in 2025. These adjustments are aimed at increasing transparency and product origin verification for export purposes. Key updates include:
- Mandatory additional controls and documentation for Fresh Pomegranate and Sultana Grapes between 01.01.2025 – 31.12.2025.
- Lentils have also been included under enhanced monitoring.
Products affected and their respective CN codes:
| Product | CN Code |
|---|---|
| Fresh Pomegranate | ex0810 90 75 |
| Frozen Pomegranate | ex0811 90 95 |
| Pomegranate Juice | ex2009 89 99 |
| Sultana Grapes | 0806 20 30 |
Certain products like cherries and strawberries have been removed from the certified list, while new categories are set to be added. Exporters should ensure they are using updated product lists when preparing applications.
For updated lists and control requirements, visit the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
BRC Certification: Safety and Quality Assurance
The BRC Global Standards have become a key benchmark for food safety and quality management in Türkiye, especially for businesses targeting European and UK retailers.
Application and Certification Process
- Product definition: Applicants must document manufacturing locations, packaging formats, and raw material sources.
- Certification validity: BRC certificates are maintained through annual audits by accredited bodies.
- Financial incentives: A 50% government support is available for eligible companies on certification-related costs.
BRC vs ISO 22000: Comparison
| Criteria | BRC | ISO 22000 |
|---|---|---|
| Core focus | Retailer-specific requirements | General food safety |
| Validity | Annual audit | Three-year certification cycle |
Companies can apply for certification via authorized certification bodies listed by the Ministry of Trade.
Product Safety and Import Regulations
Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade has expanded control mechanisms under its import notification system. New regulations primarily affect:
- Consumer electronics
- Textile and apparel products
Details on mandatory conformity assessment and updated import rules can be found in the latest Product Safety and Inspection Communiqués.
RoHS Compliance: Türkiye’s Adaptation to Environmental Standards
To align with global environmental policies, Türkiye enforces RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance for electronic products manufactured locally or imported into the country. Businesses must ensure the following steps:
- Product analysis conducted in accredited laboratories (e.g., MassLab) under TÜRKAK supervision.
- Preparation of a technical documentation package: including raw material breakdown and manufacturing process descriptions.
- Submission to regulatory authorities such as the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Trade.
Obtaining RoHS compliance is critical for sustaining access to EU-aligned markets and avoiding customs delays.
General Certification Procedures and Conditions
Certification procedures in Türkiye are becoming increasingly standardized to meet international expectations. New businesses should consider the following when seeking certification:
- Conformity assessment: All deficiencies identified during audits must be addressed before a certificate is issued.
- Geographic scope: Companies with multiple production facilities must certify each plant individually.
- Audit frequency: Depending on certification type, re-audits may be required annually or every three years.
To ensure compliance, it is advised to collaborate with licensed certification bodies and attend sector-specific briefings and training sessions.
Conclusion
With Türkiye tightening its regulatory environment in 2025, businesses involved in production, export, or distribution must stay up to date with certification requirements. Timely preparation, accurate documentation, and working with the right partners are crucial to entering or expanding in both domestic and international markets. Staying compliant not only ensures market access but also enhances brand credibility and operational sustainability.