E-commerce between Germany and Turkey: opportunities and challenges

E-commerce between Germany and Turkey has great potential, but there are also some hurdles. I will explain the most important points to you in a simple and understandable way.

Opportunities: Why is online trade between Germany and Turkey worthwhile?

Large market with high demand

• Many people with a Turkish background live in Germanywho like to buy products from Turkey (e.g. tea, spices, textiles, natural cosmetics).
• Turkey is a fast-growing e-commerce marketwith millions of online shoppers.

Favorable manufacturing costs in Turkey

• Products such as tea, textiles and cosmetics can often be produced more cheaply in Turkey than in Germany.
• Because the euro is stronger than the Turkish lira, German customers can benefit from favorable prices.

No customs duties for many products

• Thanks to the Customs union between Turkey and the EU is available for many products No additional customs duties (e.g. for clothing or machines).
• But beware: Nevertheless, special rules apply to foods such as tea or food supplements.

Sustainability as a sales argument

• In Germany Organic products and sustainable goods particularly in demand.
• Who e.g. high-quality organic tea from Turkey can gain an advantage.

Challenges: What are the problems?

1. strict import rules in Germany

• Products such as Tea or food supplements require special certificates (e.g. organic seal or TÜV test).
• All packaging and labels must be in German.

2. high shipping costs & long delivery times

• If you deliver directly from Turkey to Germany, it can be expensive and take a long time.
• Solution: Use a warehouse in Germany to deliver faster.

3. different payment methods

• In Turkey Installment payments popular, in Germany rather Credit cards and PayPal.
• This means that your store should offer various payment options.

4. currency fluctuations can be risky

• The exchange rate between the euro and the Turkish lira often changes significantly.
• This can lead to products suddenly becoming more expensive or cheaper.

5. build trust in the brand

• German customers are often cautious with new brands.
• Solution: Collect good ratings, offer customer service and use well-known certificates.