What is A.TR Movement Certificate with Turkish Origin Certificate?
Introduction
International trade between Turkey and the European Union (EU) is governed by the EU–Turkey Customs Union Agreement, signed in 1995. Under this agreement, many goods, especially industrial products, benefit from duty-free circulation between the two regions. However, smooth customs procedures and tax exemptions depend heavily on the correct use of documentation—most notably, the A.TR Movement Certificate and, where necessary, a Turkish Origin Certificate. Understanding how these documents work together is crucial for exporters, importers, and customs authorities alike.
A.TR Movement Certificate: Explained
The A.TR Certificate is a customs document used exclusively in trade between Turkey and the EU. It proves that the goods are in free circulation in Turkey or the EU—meaning they have cleared customs and all import duties, if any, have been paid.
Key Characteristics of A.TR:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Proves free circulation status (not origin) |
| Applicable Products | Industrial goods and processed agricultural goods |
| Tariff Advantage | Exemption from customs duties in EU and Turkey |
| Issuing Authority | Turkish Customs Authorities or approved chambers of commerce |
| When to Use | At the time of export from Turkey to the EU |
Note: It is not applicable for wholly agricultural products or coal and steel, which are regulated under separate agreements.
Turkish Origin Certificate: Complementary Role
While the A.TR ensures duty-free access, it does not indicate the origin of the goods. In some cases, proof of Turkish origin is also required, especially when:
- Anti-dumping regulations are in effect,
- The EU requires additional verification,
- Goods are subject to quotas or rules of origin requirements, such as under preferential trade regimes (e.g., PAN-Euro-MED cumulation).
Turkish Origin Certificate Details:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Proves goods originate in Turkey |
| Issued By | Turkish Exporters’ Unions or authorized Chambers |
| Product Scope | All types, including food, textiles, chemicals, etc. |
| International Use | Recognized globally beyond EU-Turkey trade |
| Document Type | Form A, EUR.1, or national Origin Certificate |
Why Both Documents May Be Required
In certain cases, both the A.TR Certificate and the Origin Certificate must accompany a shipment. This dual requirement occurs to meet compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks, such as:
- EU safeguard measures on origin-sensitive goods,
- Additional documentation in tender-based procurements,
- Cases where EU importers require confirmation of national origin for marketing or labeling purposes.
Real-World Trade Scenario
Example: A Turkish company exports aluminum profiles to Italy.
- It uses an A.TR certificate to eliminate customs duties under the EU-Turkey Customs Union.
- However, due to the EU’s anti-dumping policies on aluminum products originating from China and other countries, the importer also requests a Turkish Origin Certificate to confirm the goods are not of Chinese origin.
Legal Basis
- Customs Union Decision 1/95 of the EC-Turkey Association Council
- Council Regulation (EEC) No 2913/92 (Community Customs Code)
- Union Customs Code (UCC) since 2016
- National Turkish Customs Code and Export Legislation