Import Surveillance Measure on Vacuum Storage Bags – Communiqué No: 2026/3 (Türkiye)

Scope

The Communiqué covers vacuum storage bags classified under GTIP 3926.90.97.90.20.Only imports declared at a unit customs value below USD 30/kg (gross weight) fall within the scope of the surveillance requirement. Imports declared at or above this level are not subject to the obligation to obtain a surveillance certificate under this Communiqué.

Mandatory Surveillance Certificate

• Imports within scope may only be carried out with a Surveillance Certificate issued by the Import General Directorate.
• The certificate is required at the time of customs declaration registration.
• Customs clearance cannot proceed without a valid certificate.

Application and Review Process

Application Method

• Applications must be submitted electronically with an e-signature via:
• Authorization of e-signature holders acting on behalf of companies must comply with Communiqué No: 2026/19 on electronic authorization in import procedures.

System Selection

During application:

• Document Type: TPS-0964 – Surveillance Certificate (Industry)
• Communiqué/Decision: Communiqué No: 2026/3
• The application form must be completed electronically and all documents listed in Annex-2 must be uploaded in full.

Exceptional Physical Application

If electronic submission is not possible due to technical issues:

• Applications may be submitted physically
• The application form in Annex-1 must be used
• A certified trade registry document must be attached

Issuance and Use of the Surveillance Certificate

• Surveillance certificates are issued electronically
• Notification is sent to the applicant’s registered email address
• The certificate includes a 23-digit reference number and issue date
• These details must be declared in Box 44 of the customs declaration
• No separate written notification is issued

If the applicant is not registered with customs:

• The Ministry will notify the applicant by email
• The importer must complete registration within five business days
• Failure to do so will render the application invalid

Validity and Legal Effect

• Surveillance certificates are valid for six months

Enforcement and Compliance Risk

• If false, inconsistent, or incomplete information is identified during application or review, no surveillance certificate will be issued until deficiencies are remedied.
• Declarations without a valid certificate may lead to:

Entry into Force

The Communiqué enters into force 30 days after its publication date, i.e. at the end of January 2026.

Professional Compliance Assessment

From a customs compliance perspective, importers of vacuum storage bags under GTIP 3926.90.97.90.20 should:

• Review declared unit values against the USD 30/kg reference threshold
• Ensure consistency across contracts, invoices, packing lists, and declarations
• Plan surveillance certificate applications before shipment
• Prepare for enhanced valuation checks during clearance

Such surveillance measures typically indicate heightened valuation sensitivity and may precede broader trade policy actions if import patterns persist.

See the legislation document.