August 27, 2026

Turkey has extended the reduced customs duty on dry onion imports and revised the timing of customs duties on sunflower seeds used for oil production, according to a Presidential Decision published in the Official Gazette.

Under the new regulation, the 5% customs duty on dry onion imports, which was due to expire on August 31, will remain in effect until January 31, 2027. Before the temporary reduction, onion imports were subject to a 49.5% customs duty.

Sunflower Seed Duty Reduced Earlier

The regulation also changes the application period for the customs duty on oilseed sunflower seeds.

The existing 20% customs duty will be reduced to 12% starting October 1, rather than November 30 as previously planned. The 12% rate will apply outside the harvest period, from November 30 to June 15, while the 20% rate is intended to protect domestic producers during the harvest season.

Government Cites Supply Security

The Ministry of Trade said the measures aim to prevent speculative price movements, maintain the security of supply for basic food products and balance the interests of producers and consumers.

The ministry noted that developments in the Black Sea region and drought conditions affecting Europe have raised concerns over potential supply shortages and price increases for oilseed sunflower seeds.

The government said the earlier reduction in the sunflower seed import duty was agreed with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to ensure that sunflower oil producers can obtain sufficient raw materials at affordable prices and to prevent higher input costs from negatively affecting consumer prices for refined sunflower oil.

Authorities said they will continue to closely monitor supply-demand conditions and price developments and will introduce further measures when necessary.

Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök