What is Export?
Export is the process of selling goods and services produced within a country’s borders to other countries through legal trade channels. Playing a vital role in the global economy, export enables businesses to expand into international markets, grow, and generate foreign currency income. At Demresa, we focus on increasing the competitiveness of businesses in export processes and creating sustainable trade models.
Important Note
Export is not limited to the shipment of physical goods only; service export is also rapidly increasing today and makes significant contributions to economies.
Key Elements of Export
Export of Goods
The process of sending manufactured physical products to buyers abroad. It is the most common type of export.
Export of Services
Providing intangible services such as software, consulting, education, and tourism to clients abroad.
Foreign Exchange Earnings
Export supports economic development and the balance of foreign trade by generating foreign currency inflow to the country.
"Export is the gateway for businesses to the world. International success is possible through the right strategy and cooperation." – Demresa
What is E-Export and Why is it Important?
E-export is the process of selling products or services to overseas customers online via digital platforms and e-commerce infrastructure. Unlike traditional export, most of the sales, marketing, and logistics processes are managed online. At Demresa, we offer comprehensive solutions enabling SMEs and entrepreneurs to reach global markets through digitalization.
Important Note
E-export offers significant opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses, with low operational costs and fast cross-border access.
Main Advantages of E-Export
Wider Market Access
In the digital environment, it is possible to reach millions of potential customers worldwide. Products and services can be marketed without geographical boundaries.
24/7 Open Store
With e-export, businesses can sell at any time, without limitations of time or place, and instantly respond to customer demands.
Low Cost & High Efficiency
Thanks to online infrastructure, sales can be made quickly with lower operational costs, without the need for a physical store or warehouse.
"E-export is the digitalized form of traditional export and is indispensable for businesses aiming to stand out in today’s global trade." – Demresa
How to Do E-Export?
To carry out e-export, it is necessary to carefully plan the legal, technical, and operational steps required for digital commerce. At Demresa, we support businesses at every stage to help them sell their products in global markets. Here are the basic steps of the e-export process:
Identifying the Right Market and Products
Analyze the countries you will sell to and the products that are in demand there. Market research is the most important first step for successful e-export.
Setting Up a Digital Store
You can establish your own e-commerce website or open a store on global online marketplaces. It is important to meet the requirements of the chosen platform.
Logistics and Shipping Processes
Plan logistics to ensure that products sent abroad reach their destination safely and quickly. Manage international shipping agreements and customs procedures.
Payment Systems and Collection
Set up a secure and fast payment infrastructure to receive international payments from your customers. Methods like Virtual POS, PayPal, and Stripe can be used.
Digital Marketing and Customer Support
Use digital advertising, social media, and SEO efforts to reach foreign customers. Do not neglect after-sales support processes.
Legal Compliance and Taxation
E-export transactions must comply with both domestic and international regulations. Pay attention to taxation, customs declarations, and return procedures.
Practical Information
To succeed in e-export, regularly analyze products, customers, and markets, and continually improve your processes.
"Accurate planning and technological infrastructure in the e-export process bring lasting success in global markets." – Demresa
Advantages of E-Export
E-export offers many significant advantages to businesses compared to traditional export. Thanks to the conveniences provided by digitalization, products and services can be presented in global markets more quickly, cost-effectively, and efficiently. At Demresa, we support you throughout all processes to maximize the benefits of e-export.
Broad Customer Base
With e-export, your products reach customers from all over the world, expanding your potential market to millions.
Low Cost and Fast Transactions
Without the need for a physical store, it allows fast and easy sales at low operational costs.
Continuous Growth Potential
You can increase your sales with no time or place limitations and grow your business on an international scale.
24/7 Sales Opportunity
Your online store is always open, allowing you to receive orders at any time from anywhere in the world.
Analytics and Measurability
With digital channels, you can measure your marketing and sales performance and develop your strategy based on data.
Geographic Independence
You can create new market opportunities by reaching customers in different countries and regions, sustaining your business globally.
Important Information
E-export increases brand awareness in competitive markets and offers new opportunities for businesses to achieve sustainable growth.
"E-export breaks down borders by digitizing your business and offers the opportunity to reach customers from every corner of the world." – Demresa
Disadvantages of E-Export
Just like its advantages, e-export also has some disadvantages that need to be considered. At Demresa, we aim to provide effective solutions for the challenges businesses may face. Here are the main disadvantages encountered in the e-export process:
Language and Cultural Barriers
When selling to different countries, language barriers and cultural differences can complicate customer relations and marketing activities.
Logistics and Delivery Issues
Delays, additional costs, or losses can occur during international shipping processes. Delivery times may vary from country to country.
Tax and Legal Regulation Differences
Each country has different import regulations, tax policies, and legal obligations; this requires extra knowledge and compliance.
Payment and Collection Risks
In international payments, collection delays, exchange rate fluctuations, and payment security issues may arise.
Return and Customer Service Challenges
Managing returns and ensuring customer satisfaction is more complex and costly than in local markets.
Technical Infrastructure Requirements
E-export requires a secure and fast website, integrations, and digital infrastructure; this may require technical knowledge and investment.
Warning
Being prepared for possible issues in e-export and managing processes well are critical for long-term success.
"It is possible to overcome the challenges of e-export with the right strategy and expert support." – Demresa
Differences Between E-Export and Traditional Export
The main differences between e-export and traditional export relate to the level of digitalization, operational flexibility, and access capacity in business processes. At Demresa, we believe it is important to understand these differences well in the digitizing world of trade.
Sales Channels
Traditional Export: Conducted through traditional sales teams, fairs, distributors, and dealer networks.
E-Export: Products are delivered directly to overseas customers via online marketplaces and e-commerce sites.
Operational Costs
Traditional Export: Higher costs due to the need for warehouses, stores, and sales personnel.
E-Export: Offers low-cost, fast, and easy operations thanks to digital platforms.
Customer Access
Traditional Export: Limited to certain regions and business partners.
E-Export: Thanks to the internet, it is possible to reach millions of potential customers.
Time and Access
Traditional Export: Limited by working hours and holidays.
E-Export: Offers 24/7 uninterrupted sales and access.
Growth and Scalability
Traditional Export: Expanding into new markets takes time and requires high investment.
E-Export: Offers the potential to enter new markets and grow rapidly in a short time.
Technical Infrastructure and Digitalization
Traditional Export: Physical infrastructure and manual processes dominate.
E-Export: Enables digital integrations, automation, and analysis opportunities.
Short Note
While e-export offers a trade model that transcends borders in the digitalized world, traditional export relies on conventional business relationships.
"With the right strategy, businesses can benefit the most by using both traditional and e-export models together." – Demresa
Reasons to Start E-Export
In today's fast-paced digital era, starting e-export offers many strategic advantages for companies. At Demresa, we help businesses push their boundaries with the opportunities provided by e-export. Here are the main reasons to start e-export:
Access to Global Markets
With e-export, you can easily enter new markets by delivering your products and services to customers all over the world.
Increased Sales
Without being dependent solely on the local market, you can increase your sales and grow your business globally.
Gaining Foreign Currency Revenue
By earning foreign currency from your international sales, you can increase your financial strength and become more resilient to economic fluctuations.
Fast and Easy Market Entry
You can easily open an online store on digital platforms and quickly start selling internationally, without the need for major investments.
Reaching New Customer Segments
You can increase your brand awareness and build a global customer portfolio by reaching various customer groups in different countries.
Gaining a Competitive Advantage
With e-export in a digitalizing market, you can get ahead of your competitors and seize new growth opportunities with innovative business models.
Key Information
Businesses that start e-export early stand out in global competition and gain a significant advantage for sustainable growth.
"E-export is the trade model of the future, breaking down boundaries for businesses." – Demresa
Where to Start with E-Export?
To start your e-export journey with confidence, you need to plan properly from the beginning and implement the necessary steps in order. At Demresa, we offer roadmaps and digital transformation support for businesses. Here are the basic steps to start e-export:
Target Market and Product Analysis
First, analyze in which country and with which product group you will operate. Dedicate time to market research and demand analysis.
Digital Infrastructure and Store Setup
Set up an e-commerce site or open a store on global marketplaces. Create a secure and user-friendly infrastructure.
Logistics and Cargo Planning
Clarify your shipping processes by making international cargo agreements. Carefully calculate delivery times and costs.
Payment System Integration
Integrate virtual POS, digital wallets, or alternative payment systems that enable you to receive payments from abroad.
Digital Marketing and Customer Acquisition
Focus on digital advertising, social media, and SEO activities to reach foreign customers. Increase your brand awareness.
Legal and Tax Compliance
Ensure that your e-export operations comply with relevant legislation, customs, and tax obligations. Prepare all official documents completely.
Practical Advice
Before starting e-export, you can professionally plan your steps by getting process consultancy and make a strong start in the global market.
"For successful e-export, a solid infrastructure and the right market selection are the most important steps." – Demresa
What Are the E-Export Documents?
To properly conduct legal and commercial operations during the e-export process, certain documents must be prepared. At Demresa, we provide consultancy services to ensure your e-export documents are prepared accurately and completely. Here are the main documents most commonly encountered in e-export:
E-Export Invoice
An export invoice issued in compliance with the relevant country’s legislation for overseas sales. It is created electronically and sent to the buyer.
Customs Declaration
Prepared at customs for products being exported and ensures the shipment is officially recorded.
Shipping and Transportation Documents
Transport documents (bill of lading, dispatch note, delivery receipt) obtained from international cargo companies showing safe shipment of the product.
Payment Documents
Bank receipts, payment slips, and electronic transfer records for payments received from abroad document the payment process.
Certificates of Origin and Health
For food, textile, or certain special products, certificates (certificate of origin, health certificate, etc.) may be required to prove origin and compliance.
Special Importer Country Documents
Additional documents requested by the target country’s legislation may be required. These documents vary from country to country.
Note
Preparing all documents completely and accurately is crucial both for legal compliance and customer satisfaction. Seek professional support when necessary.
"E-export documents are critical for ensuring your operations progress smoothly and quickly." – Demresa
Requirements for E-Export
In order to start and sustain e-export, certain legal, technical, and operational requirements must be fulfilled. At Demresa, we support businesses to complete all requirements accurately throughout the e-export process. Here are the main requirements for e-export:
Taxpayer Status and Company Establishment
You must be a taxpayer in Turkey as an individual or legal entity. Sole proprietorships, limited, or joint-stock companies are accepted.
E-Commerce Infrastructure
You must have an e-commerce website or open a store on global marketplaces (Amazon, Etsy, etc.) to offer your products or services.
International Payment Systems
You must have payment infrastructure such as virtual POS, PayPal, Stripe, etc. for overseas sales. Secure payment systems are critical for customer satisfaction.
Logistics and Shipping Agreements
For international shipments, you should have agreements with global cargo companies and plan your logistics processes clearly.
Legal and Customs Compliance
E-export operations must comply with all relevant legal regulations in your country and the target country.
Customer Service and Support
You must have a communication infrastructure to provide fast and effective support to foreign customers. Consider language and time zone differences.
Note
To be successful in e-export, it is important to complete all technical and legal requirements from the beginning to avoid problems in the long run.
"Businesses that meet the requirements progress faster and more securely in the global market." – Demresa
Products That Can Be Sold in E-Export
Thanks to e-export, many products produced in various sectors can find buyers in global markets. At Demresa, we guide you on which products may attract interest abroad and which product groups can be legally sold. Here are the most preferred product groups in e-export:
Textile and Fashion Products
Clothing, shoes, accessories, and bags are in high demand in international markets.
Home Decoration and Furniture
Handmade objects, furniture, textile products, and home accessories are in demand worldwide.
Personal Care and Cosmetics
Natural and organic cosmetics, soaps, skincare products, and makeup products are becoming increasingly popular every year.
Electronics and Technological Products
Phone accessories, smart devices, computer equipment, and small electronic products appeal to a wide customer base.
Art, Hobbies, and Handicrafts
Jewelry, paintings, souvenirs, and handicraft products stand out abroad due to their uniqueness.
Food and Beverage Products
Packaged food, organic and local products, tea, and coffee can be exported, provided that the regulations of the destination country are followed.
Note
Each product group must comply with the legal regulations and import restrictions in the target country. When choosing products for e-export, always check the current legislation of the target country.
"Choosing the right product is the first step to sustainable success in e-export." – Demresa
E-Export Support and Incentive Programs
Companies engaged in e-export can benefit from various support and incentive programs provided by government institutions and organizations to gain a stronger presence in global markets. At Demresa, we offer consultancy on current incentives and application processes you can use during your e-export journey. Here are the main support programs available for e-exporters in Turkey:
E-Turquality (Digitalization Support)
E-Turquality support provided by the Ministry of Trade offers comprehensive incentives for branding, e-commerce infrastructure, digital marketing, and overseas promotion.
Overseas Digital Marketing Support
Support for digital ads, SEO, and influencer marketing expenses abroad makes it easier for e-exporters to reach global markets.
Logistics and Shipping Supports
Incentives for shipping, logistics, and warehousing costs of products sent abroad provide a cost advantage.
Market Research and International Fair Support
With incentives for market research, fairs, and trade delegations in target markets, you can more easily reach new customers.
Marketplace Membership and Commission Support
For companies wanting to open a store on global marketplaces, a portion of membership and commission costs is covered by the government.
Training and Consultancy Support
You can benefit from training, mentorship, and consultancy support to gain knowledge and skills in e-export processes.
Info
Carefully review the application requirements to benefit from support and incentive programs. Complete applications ensure faster processes.
"E-export supported by the right incentives provides a competitive advantage in global markets." – Demresa
Payment Methods Used in E-Export
Various digital and traditional methods are used to receive payments from international customers in e-export processes. At Demresa, we provide support on integrating secure and fast payment solutions. Here are the most common payment methods in e-export:
Virtual POS Systems
Enables secure online payments with credit or debit cards. Infrastructures supporting international cards should be preferred.
PayPal and Similar Digital Wallets
Fast, easy, and secure payments can be received via PayPal, Stripe, Wise, and other digital wallets. Widely used in many countries.
International Bank Transfer (SWIFT)
Payment can be received as foreign currency through bank-to-bank SWIFT transfers. Common for large payments.
Letter of Credit
A payment method guaranteed by banks under certain conditions. Preferred for large and high-risk transactions.
Cash on Delivery and Collection Services
In some countries, cash on delivery is possible for customers receiving the product. Especially used for small orders.
Cryptocurrency Payments
On some modern e-commerce platforms, it is possible to accept Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies; offers speed and cost advantages.
Info
When choosing a payment method in e-export, consider both customer habits and security and cost factors.
"Offering a variety of payment methods provides trust and increases sales for global customers." – Demresa
Things to Know Before Setting Up an E-Export Site
Setting up an e-export site is key to succeeding in global markets. However, there are several fundamental points to consider before you start the process. At Demresa, we provide comprehensive consultancy to businesses before site setup. Here’s what you should know before building your e-export site:
Target Market and Customer Analysis
Before building your site, analyze which countries or regions you will target, your target customer profile, and market dynamics.
Choosing the Right Infrastructure and Platform
Choose a user-friendly, mobile-compatible, and scalable infrastructure. Platforms offering special integrations for e-export stand out.
Security and Data Protection
Be sure to implement data protection measures such as SSL certificates, secure payment systems, and KVKK/GDPR compliance.
Multilingual and Multi-Currency Support
To serve foreign customers, your site should offer multiple languages and currencies.
SEO and Digital Marketing Infrastructure
Build a strong SEO and digital marketing infrastructure to increase your site traffic and stand out in global searches.
Customer Service and Support Processes
Establish a communication infrastructure to quickly respond to customer questions and provide multilingual support.
Note
Creating a detailed roadmap before setting up your e-export site prevents future problems and increases your return on investment.
"A successful e-export site starts with the right planning and infrastructure." – Demresa
E-Export Tax Rates 2025
As of 2025, tax rates for companies engaged in e-export in Turkey have been updated under corporate tax, personal income tax/withholding, VAT, and foreign exchange sales obligations.
Corporate Tax
The standard rate is 25%. For the financial sector, it is 30%. Also, as of January 1, 2025, with the minimum tax regime, at least 10% of the tax base is calculated, and whichever is higher is applied.
Personal Income/Withholding Tax (Individual)
2025 personal income tax brackets: • Up to 158,000 TL: 15% • 158,000–330,000 TL: 20% • 330,000–800,000 TL: 27% • 800,000–4,300,000 TL: 35% • Over 4,300,000 TL: 40%
Value Added Tax (VAT)
The general VAT rate is 20%. Some products and services have reduced rates of 1% and 10%. Exports are exempt from VAT (with a VAT refund system). On import, VAT is 20%.
Foreign Currency Sales Obligation
At least 25% of export proceeds must be sold to the Central Bank as of March 3, 2025. The previous rate was 30% but has been reduced.
Important Information
While a 25% corporate tax is applied to corporate income, a minimum tax liability of 10% has been introduced. Personal income tax and VAT brackets are current. The obligation to sell export proceeds has been reduced to 25%.
"Accurate tax planning in 2025 will ensure sustainable success in e-export." – Demresa
Make Your E-Export Processes Easier with Demresa Infrastructure
Success in e-export is possible with the right technology, integrated solutions, and expert support. Demresa is with you throughout your entire e-export journey, from digital infrastructure to integrations. Here are some of the advantages Demresa offers:
E-Commerce and E-Export from a Single Panel
Easily control all your products, orders, and customer data from a single management panel.
Marketplace and Shipping Integrations
Automate your operations with quick integrations to global marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and international shipping companies.
Multilingual and Multi-Currency Support
Offer sales opportunities in different languages and currencies suitable for customers from various countries.
Expert Support and Training
Receive professional support and training from the Demresa team for any issues you may encounter during your e-export processes.
Advantage
With Demresa infrastructure, you eliminate technical complexities and achieve rapid setup, automation, and sustainable growth.
"Success in e-export starts with strong infrastructure and the right business partner. Move forward in the global market with Demresa."
