US imports from Turkey grew 14% YoY post-2023 as brands diversified from China. Most apparel pays MFN duty (16-32% depending on HS). Critical: UFLPA cotton-origin compliance, CPSC labeling, FTC care symbols.
- Imports
- USD 1.6 billion
- Duty
- 16-32% MFN
- Critical compliance
- UFLPA
- Lead time + freight
- 55-90 days
Why US buyers come to Turkey
Post-2023 China diversification, especially after UFLPA enforcement intensified. Turkish 25-35 day production cycles vs 55-90 days from Far East justifies the duty differential for fast-fashion programs.
Major US channels: Amazon, Macys, Target, Walmart, plus DTC streetwear and modest fashion brands. Premium denim DTC routinely sources from Bagcilar and Cerkezkoy.
Customs duty structure
HS 6109 (T-shirts): 16.5% MFN. HS 6203 (men woven): 17.5%. HS 6204 (women woven): 16.5%. HS 6110 (knit jumpers): 32%. Add 0.34% MPF and applicable HMF.
GSP+ (Generalised System of Preferences Plus) no longer applies to Turkey. AGOA does not apply. Plan duty into landed cost from the start.
UFLPA: the make-or-break
UFLPA enforcement is active. Any cotton garment shipped to US must have cotton-origin documentation. Turkish factories address this via Aegean and Southeast region certificates.
CBP can detain shipments at port for 30-90 days while reviewing documentation. Always request UFLPA-compliant cotton 12 weeks ahead of shipment.
Other compliance
CPSC: kids garments with flammability claims. FTC Care Labeling Rule: care symbols and content disclosure in English. CPSIA: phthalates and lead for kids products.
CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) membership reduces customs delays. Several Istanbul factories are CTPAT enrolled; preferred for time-sensitive programs.
Logistics to USA
Sea Istanbul-NY/Norfolk: 28-35 days. Sea Istanbul-LA via Panama: 35-45 days. Air via DHL/UPS to JFK/LAX: 3-5 days door-to-door.
East Coast distribution: NY/NJ Port, Norfolk, Charleston. West Coast: LA/Long Beach. Inland: Memphis, Chicago for cross-dock.
Cultural norms and commercial practice
US buyers often want full DDP quotes including duty and customs broker. WRAP or SMETA Gold certification preferred for major retailer programs.
Magic Las Vegas trade fair is a key buyer event. Most Turkish exporters showcase there bi-annually.