THE IMPORTANCE OF FACILITATION OF CUSTOMS PROCEDURES FOR BUSINESSES

Abstract

The globalization movement that emerged after World War II increased the volume of world foreign trade. Our country, which previously implemented strict foreign trade controls, adapted to these developments and implemented a free foreign trade policy in 1980. These practices have positively impacted our country's foreign trade volume. While exports were $2.9 billion in 1980, they reached approximately $262 billion in 2024. This trend has also been experienced in imports, another component of foreign trade. As of 2024, our country's foreign trade volume reached approximately $606 billion. During exports and imports, goods pass through customs authorities and are subject to customs procedures. Throughout history, countries' customs procedures have hindered international trade in goods. The stringency and transparency of customs procedures vary depending on a country's level of development. While customs procedures can be easier in developed countries, customs procedures in underdeveloped or underdeveloped countries can take longer, delaying shipments and potentially leading to problems with customer satisfaction and the supply chain. The Customs Union agreement, which Turkey implemented with the EU on January 1, 1996, marked a significant step toward streamlining and facilitating customs procedures. In 2014, Turkey implemented the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) system, implemented in EU countries, the United States, and many other countries. This system aims to simplify and expedite customs procedures, as is the case in these countries. Another system that facilitates customs procedures is the Approved Person Status (APS) system, implemented at the national level. This study analyzes these two systems and examines their impact on businesses in terms of customs procedures.

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