Amendment to the Communiqué on the Application of Surveillance in Imports (Communiqué No: 2018/6)

Executive Summary

With the amendment published on 31 December 2025, the scope of import surveillance under Communiqué No: 2018/6 has been substantially expanded, particularly for valves, valve components, and related mechanical control equipment classified under GTIP 8481 and 8481.90. While most previously listed unit value thresholds remain unchanged, many new GTIP subheadings have been added, meaning a significantly larger range of products will now require a Surveillance Certificate (Gözetim Belgesi) if declared below the specified unit customs values. The amendment will enter into force on 30 January 2026.

1. What Has Changed Compared to the Previous Regulation

Under the amendment dated 31.12.2025, the table in Article 1 of the Communiqué on the Application of Surveillance in Imports (No: 2018/6) has been fully replaced.

Key technical changes include:

• Significant expansion of GTIP coverage, especially under heading 8481 (valves and similar appliances) and 8481.90 (parts).
• Introduction of numerous new, detailed GTIP sub-lines, distinguishing products by:
• Previously covered items remain subject to the same unit customs values, including:
• The surveillance calculation method remains unchanged:Unit values are still assessed on the basis of USD per kilogram of gross weight.
• Entry into force:The amended table becomes effective on 30 January 2026, i.e. 30 days after publication.

2. Practical Meaning for Companies and Required Actions

From a customs compliance and operational standpoint, this amendment has material consequences for importers of mechanical control equipment and valve systems.

Key implications:

• A much wider product range is now subject to surveillance, increasing the likelihood that imports will require a Surveillance Certificate.
• GTIP classification risk has increased, as many products previously grouped under broader headings are now split into more specific sub-lines.
• Incorrect classification or undervaluation may result in:

Recommended actions for importers:

• Conduct a GTIP mapping exercise for all valve-related imports to identify newly covered subheadings.
• Review unit prices, gross weights, and invoice structures to ensure consistency with surveillance thresholds.
• For shipments falling below the applicable unit value, initiate Surveillance Certificate applications in advance through the Ministry’s electronic system.
• Strengthen technical documentation (catalogues, specifications, usage descriptions) to support both classification and valuation during customs controls.

Failure to adapt to the expanded scope may cause clearance delays and compliance risks, particularly for industrial equipment and spare parts shipments.

See relevant legislation document