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Turkey’s Machinery Sector

Turkey’s Machinery Sector: Required Certifications and Export Steps

In 2025, Turkey’s machinery sector solidified its position as a key export driver, with exports reaching a record $28.7 billion (per the Machinery Exporters’ Association – MAİB). The industry ranks second in overall Turkish exports, benefiting from strong demand in Europe (around 60% of shipments), the US, Africa, and the Middle East. Turkish machinery—ranging from industrial equipment, boilers, mechanical appliances, milling machines, and construction gear—excels through competitive pricing, quality improvements, and growing integration of Industry 4.0 features like automation and smart systems.

Exporting machinery requires compliance with international safety, quality, and technical standards, particularly for major markets like the EU (facilitated by the EU-Turkey Customs Union), the US, Africa, and others. Key certifications focus on product safety, conformity, and origin proof, while the export process leverages Turkey’s efficient customs system.

Required Certifications for Machinery Exports

Machinery often falls under strict technical regulations, especially for safety-critical or industrial use. Common requirements include:

CE Marking (Mandatory for EU and Turkey-aligned markets) Required under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC (harmonized in Turkey). It certifies that the machinery meets essential health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
- Applies to most industrial machinery, pressure equipment, lifts, and related products.
- Process: Identify applicable EU directives/harmonized standards → Conduct risk assessment → Compile technical file → Issue EU Declaration of Conformity (self-declaration for lower-risk machinery or Notified Body involvement for high-risk) → Affix CE mark.
- Turkish manufacturers can obtain CE in Turkey via local or EU-accredited bodies. Non-compliance blocks EU entry and can affect Customs Union benefits.
- For exports to Turkey itself (re-import scenarios), CE evidence (manufacturer declaration or Notified Body certificate) is submitted via the TAREKS system for risk-based controls.
ISO Standards (Voluntary but Highly Recommended)
- ISO 9001 (Quality Management) — Builds buyer trust and often required in tenders/contracts.
- ISO 14001 (Environmental) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety) — Enhance appeal in sustainability-focused markets (e.g., Europe, Africa donor projects).
- ISO 27001 for smart/Industry 4.0 machinery with data features.
Other Market-Specific Certifications
- UL or CSA (for North America/US/Canada) — Safety certifications for electrical/mechanical components.
- GOST/TR CU (for Russia/Eurasian Customs Union) — If targeting CIS markets.
- SONCAP or equivalent (for some African countries like Nigeria) — Product conformity verification.
- End-User Certificate (for dual-use or controlled machinery) — Required for sensitive technologies to prevent diversion.
Origin and Movement Documents
- A.TR Certificate — For duty-free movement to the EU under the Customs Union (issued by Turkish customs/chambers).
- Certificate of Origin (Form A or chamber-issued) — For preferential tariffs in non-EU markets (e.g., via FTAs with Egypt, Morocco, or others in Africa).
Additional
- Technical File and Risk Assessment Report — Must be maintained for CE and audits.
- User Manuals/Instructions in destination languages.

For high-risk machinery (e.g., pressure vessels, explosive atmospheres), involve an EU/Turkish Notified Body for third-party assessment.

Step-by-Step Export Process for Machinery

Market Research and Compliance Check Identify target markets and applicable regulations (e.g., EU Machinery Directive, destination import rules). Ensure product meets standards; obtain necessary certifications (CE, ISO, etc.).
Company and Product Preparation Register as an exporter (via Turkish customs/e-Gov systems). Join MAİB or related associations for support. Prepare technical documentation, risk assessments, and conformity declarations.
Secure Orders and Contracts Negotiate terms, including Incoterms, payment (e.g., letter of credit for large machinery), and after-sales support (critical for African markets).
Prepare Export Documentation
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Transport Documents (Bill of Lading, CMR for road, Air Waybill)
- A.TR or Certificate of Origin
- CE Declaration/Technical File excerpts (if requested)
- Insurance Certificate
- End-User Certificate (if applicable)
Customs Declaration and Clearance Submit electronic export declaration via Turkey’s BİLGE system. For EU: Use A.TR for duty-free entry. Risk-based controls via TAREKS may apply for certain machinery. Pay any export fees (minimal for most goods).
Arrange Logistics and Shipping Use sea freight (Izmir/Mersin ports) for bulk/heavy machinery to Africa/Europe (18-35 days typical). Partner with forwarders experienced in oversized/overweight cargo and heavy-lift handling.
Post-Export Follow-Up Provide installation/training support. Track payments and resolve any issues. Use export incentives (e.g., via KOSGEB or Eximbank) for financing.