As the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread across the world, nations worldwide have implemented some measures such as quarantines, travel bans, restrictions for imports and exports. In the exercise of the caution to contain the spread of the COVID-19 global outbreak, the Turkish government has taken some precautions with regards to import and export of some critical products. Such measures taken by the related Turkish Authorities related to the export of the products can be found below:

According to amendment of the Communique on Export of Prohibited and Pre-Permitted Goods which was published in the Official Gazette dated March 4, 2020; export of the following products which are offered to the market within the scope of personal protective equipment and/or Medical Device Regulations are subject to pre-permission of Turkish Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency: protective mask (gas, dust and radioactive dust filtered masks), overalls (protective work wear), liquid-proof apron (protective aprons used against chemicals) and goggles (protective goggles) and medical and surgical mask and medical sterile / nonsterile gloves.

In accordance with the instructions received from the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, it is stated that the entrance into Turkey, imports and all kinds of transactions of animal products and products and microorganisms containing animal components originating from the People's Republic of China has been temporarily suspended until the information about the origin and epidemiology of the COVID-19 epidemic becomes clear.

According to amendment of the Communique on the Goods Subject to the Registration of Export which was published in the Official Gazette dated March 18, 2020, following products are added to the list of exported goods which are subject to pre-permission and registration of the Republic of Turkey General Directorate of Export: ethyl alcohol, cologne, disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide, meltblown fabric.
Considering that the Turkish government is ready to take all necessary measures to fight ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, the new amendments and regulations are expected to be made in order to meet the needs of both public and international health.

Published on Lexology.com on 01.04.2020.