Amendment to the Communiqué on the Application of Surveillance in Imports

1. What Has Changed Compared to the Previous Regulation

With the amendment published on 31 December 2025, the table under Article 1 of the Communiqué on the Application of Surveillance in Imports (No: 2019/2) has been revised.

The key changes are as follows:

• Increase in unit customs values for certain self-adhesive plastic products:
• Subdivision of GTIP 3919.90.80.30.00 into more detailed tariff lines:
• No change in the surveillance value for:
• The measurement basis remains unchanged:Surveillance values continue to apply per kilogram of gross weight.

The amended table will enter into force on 30 January 2026, i.e. 30 days after publication.

2. Practical Meaning for Importers and Required Actions

From an operational and compliance perspective, this amendment has direct implications for importers of self-adhesive plastic sheets, films, and tapes, particularly those classified under Chapter 39.

Key points to consider:

• Surveillance threshold risk has increased for polypropylene-based products. Declarations below the revised unit values will mandatorily require a Surveillance Certificate (Gözetim Belgesi) issued by the Ministry.
• The new GTIP breakdown increases classification sensitivity. Incorrect tariff classification (especially between digital printing films and “other” products) may trigger:
• As already emphasized in the General Directorate of Customs letter dated 20.06.2019, there is heightened scrutiny against tariff shifting attempts in adhesive products. This risk remains fully valid and is reinforced by the updated thresholds.

Recommended actions for companies:

• Review current and planned imports against the new unit customs values before 30.01.2026.
• Reassess GTIP classifications in light of the newly separated tariff lines.
• Align invoice unit prices, weight declarations, and delivery terms (FOB/CIF) consistently to avoid valuation discrepancies.
• Where unit values fall below thresholds, ensure timely application for a Surveillance Certificate via the electronic system of the Ministry.
• Strengthen internal controls and documentation, especially technical specifications and product descriptions, to mitigate classification and valuation risks.

Failure to adapt declarations to the new surveillance values may result in customs clearance delays, rejection of declarations, or administrative sanctions.

See Related legislation