Dry onion import tax extended and rate reduced for oilseed sunflower
With a decree published in the Official Gazette, the 5 percent tax on dry onion imports was extended until January 31, 2027, while the oilseed sunflower tax was lowered to 12 percent.
In line with the Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette, the duration of the 5 percent customs duty applied to dry onion imports has been extended, while a reduction has been made in the import tax rate for oilseed sunflower.
Duration of Dry Onion Import Tax Extended
With the Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette, it was decided to extend the duration of the 5 percent customs duty applied to dry onion imports.
With this regulation, the application of the 5 percent customs duty, which was normally set to expire on August 31, will continue until January 31, 2027.
Higher Rates Applied in the Previous Period
Price debates and developments were closely monitored regarding dry onions, for which a 13.5 percent decrease in production is expected this year.
In the period prior to the current low tax rate of 5 percent, a high customs duty of 49.5 percent was applied to onion imports.
Tax Reduction on Oilseed Sunflower
Another important change made in the import regime was implemented for oilseed sunflower imports.
The customs duty, which was normally planned to be applied at 20 percent until November 30, was lowered to 12 percent as of October 1 with the new regulation.
Market and Supply Security Statement from the Ministry
In the statement made by the Ministry of Trade, it was emphasized that the aim is to guide markets correctly and prevent speculative price movements.
It was stated that producer and consumer welfare are evaluated together in order to ensure supply security in basic food products and to meet the country's needs with domestic production.
Drought and Regional Developments Taken into Account
It was stated that developments in the Black Sea region and the drought affecting across Europe could negatively impact the oilseed sunflower supply.
It was conveyed that necessary evaluations were made among the relevant ministries by taking into account potential risks of supply security and price increases.
New Regulation Focused on Industrialists and Consumers
It was noted that this decision was made to ensure that industrialists, who are sunflower oil producers, can access affordable raw materials in a timely manner.
As a result of the consensus reached with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, a pre-brought reduction was made in the tax rate to prevent consumer prices of refined sunflower oil from being adversely affected.