Handling Permit in Import Inspection

Handling Permit in Import Inspection: New Practice for CE Mark and Mandatory Labeling
The Directorate General of Customs of the Ministry of Trade has issued a notice clarifying the rules on “handling permits” during import inspections. The document emphasizes that adding mandatory markings such as the CE mark, brand, model, or other technical regulatory labels to products at the customs stage is generally not permitted.

• The CE mark must be affixed by the manufacturer after production is completed, as proof of compliance with technical regulations. Therefore, customs authorities will not normally allow CE marking to be added during handling.
• Similarly, requests to add brand information that could infringe trademark rights must be carefully scrutinized.

Exception:
If import inspectors and the relevant Group Directorates grant approval, CE marks and similar mandatory information may be added under handling procedures. In such cases, customs authorities can only act upon an official approval letter transmitted by the Regional Directorate.
Institutional Oversight:

• For products covered by Product Safety and Inspection Communiqués 2025/8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, the approval of the Group Directorate under the Regional Directorate is required.
• For products under Communiqués 2025/1, 2, 9, and 25, the approval of the Turkish Standards Institution (TSE) must be obtained.

This update is critical for importers: mandatory markings such as the CE mark or decibel labels must be completed during production, not expected to be added later at customs.