As one of the largest economies in the European Union, Italy is a strategic trading partner for Turkey and many other countries. It boasts a strong import-export volume in fashion and textiles, as well as automotive and industrial products. Businesses looking to enter this market must first thoroughly understand customs duty rates, trade rules, and documentation requirements.
This guide covers everything you need to know about foreign trade with Italy as of 2025.
How Does the Customs Duty System Work in Italy?
As a member of the European Union (EU), Italy applies taxes through the TARIC system (EU Common Customs Tariff). This means that companies importing to Italy are essentially subject to EU rules.
Factors Considered When Determining Customs Duty:
GTIP/HS Code
Country of Origin
Type and Intended Use of the Product
Trade Agreements (FTA, Customs Union, etc.)
Sectoral Customs Duty Rates as of 2025
Product Group Average Customs Duty Rate
Textiles & Fashion 8% – 12%
Electronics & Technology 0% – 5%
Automotive & Spare Parts 4.5% – 10%
Agriculture & Food Products 5% – 25%
Furniture & Decoration 2% – 8%
Note: Industrial goods coming from countries within the Customs Union, such as Turkey, are generally exempt from customs duty. However, the product must be shipped with an ATR document.
🇹🇷 Customs Duty Advantages Between Turkey and Italy
Since Turkey is part of the Customs Union agreement with the European Union, many products in trade with Italy are exempt from customs duty. To benefit from this advantage, shipments must be accompanied by an ATR document.
Required Documents for Exports from Turkey to Italy:
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
GTIP Code
ATR Document
CE Certificate (for required products)
Transport and Handling Documents (CMR, Bill of Lading, etc.)
Importing from Non-EU Countries to Italy
Italy applies standard customs duty + VAT (22%) according to the TARIC system for imports from non-EU countries. Additionally, additional environmental, consumption, or special taxes may apply to certain products.
Some countries with which the EU has FTAs:
South Korea
Japan
Canada
Chile
Ukraine
Tax reductions or exemptions may apply to certain products in trade with these countries.
Are Taxes Applied When Exporting from Italy?
No, there is no customs duty when exporting from Italy. However:
An export declaration is required.
The product must comply with the import regulations of the destination country.
A license or additional document may be required for controlled products.
Things to Consider in Italian Customs Procedures
Determine the GTIP code correctly: Tax rates are calculated according to this code.
Prepare CE and RoHS documents: Mandatory for electronic and technical products.
Present the complete ATR document: Required to benefit from customs exemption.
Obtain an EORI number: Every company trading in EU countries must have this number.
Check with the TARIC code: Shows the EU-wide tax rate for each product.
Recommendations for Trading with Italy
Customs procedures in Italy are conducted digitally, so it is important to transfer complete documents to the digital system.
The Italian market is quality-oriented: Packaging, labeling, and product content must comply with EU standards.
Italian labeling and content declarations are mandatory for food products.
Working with a logistics company or consultant specialized in customs clearance processes Accelerates
Conclusion
By 2025, foreign trade with Italy is one of the most effective ways to gain a strong foothold in the European market. Correctly analyzing customs duty rates, preparing the necessary documentation, and leveraging trade advantages will increase your competitiveness. The Italian market offers significant opportunities, especially for countries like Turkey within the Customs Union.