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Trade guide

Shopping and importing from Turkey: step by step

From a shopping trip to your first commercial shipment: where to go, how to check a supplier, and how to get your goods home.

Wholesale districts
Laleli, Merter, Osmanbey
Key document
Certificate of origin
Shipping
Sea, road, air
Step 1 of 5Your first visit

Know where to shop

For personal shopping: the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar, malls and brand stores. For trade: wholesale districts such as Laleli, Merter and Osmanbey for clothing and fabrics, and Mahmutpaşa for household goods. Visit the market yourself before any large order.

What to do

  • Decide what goods you want
  • Visit the wholesale markets on working days
  • Collect shop cards, product photos and prices

Documents you need

  • A list of products and rough quantities

Frequently asked questions

Where are the wholesale markets in Istanbul?

The best known are Laleli, Merter and Osmanbey for clothing and fabrics, and Mahmutpaşa near the Grand Bazaar for household and general goods.

What is the key document for importing from Turkey?

The commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading, plus a certificate of origin issued through Turkish chambers of commerce, which can reduce customs duties.

How do I ship a small quantity?

Shipping groups and consolidated freight offices suit small quantities, and air freight suits urgent goods.

How do I avoid fraud?

Check the supplier's trade registry, get samples, sign a written contract and pay through a bank rather than in cash.

Customs requirements differ by country, so check with your own customs authority before shipping.