How To Do E-Export
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14 August 2025
E-export refers to the process of selling products or services to international customers via digital platforms. Unlike traditional export, it allows businesses to sell directly to end users without intermediaries. With the rise of the internet and online payment systems, e-export has become a major opportunity, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to expand globally.
Any entrepreneur with an e-commerce infrastructure can sell products internationally through e-export. In Turkey, e-export operations are not only encouraged with foreign currency earnings but are also supported by various government incentives.
Differences Between E-Export and Traditional Export
| Criteria | Traditional Export | E-Export |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Business to Business (B2B) | Business to Consumer (B2C) |
| Logistics | Container-based | Parcel and cargo shipments |
| Customs | Traditional declaration | ETGB (Electronic Customs Form) |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Operational Process | Complex | Simplified |
E-export offers a more flexible, cost-effective, and beginner-friendly business model compared to traditional export.
Is a Company Required for E-Export?
Yes. To legally engage in e-export, you must establish a registered company. This enables you to issue invoices, fulfill tax obligations, and benefit from export-related government support programs.
The most common company types:
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Sole Proprietorship: Easy and low-cost to set up; ideal for small-scale entrepreneurs.
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Limited Company: Better suited for long-term growth and more formal operations.
Marcaworld provides full support for setting up your business, registering for tax systems, and integrating your digital infrastructure before you begin e-export.
How To Do E-Export: Step-by-Step Process
1. Company Formation and Tax Registration
To operate legally, you must register with the tax office. After establishing your business, you’ll need to switch to e-invoice, e-archive, and e-ledger systems. You should also apply for VAT exemption on international sales during this stage.
2. Product Selection and Market Research
Decide what product you want to sell and analyze the demand in your target country. Popular e-export categories include:
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Fashion and apparel
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Cosmetics and personal care
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Handmade products
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Digital goods
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Baby and children’s products
3. E-Commerce Infrastructure Setup
You can either create your own e-commerce website or open a store on international marketplaces. Popular e-export platforms include:
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Amazon (US and Europe)
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Etsy
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eBay
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AliExpress
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Your own Shopify website
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Local platforms like Trendyol GoGlobal and Hepsiburada Global
4. Payment System Integration
To accept international payments, you’ll need to integrate systems like Stripe, Payoneer, or Wise. These platforms often require you to register a business and obtain a tax number in a supported country. Marcaworld handles your payment infrastructure setup and manages the technical process.
5. Logistics and Shipping Process
E-export typically uses the micro-export model. This applies to shipments under 300 kg and €15,000 in value, and is completed through ETGB (Electronic Customs Declaration). Benefits of micro-export include:
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No customs broker required
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Faster shipping process
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Tax advantages
Marcaworld automates your shipping process by integrating with logistics providers and preparing all necessary documentation.
6. Invoicing and Tax Procedures
International sales may qualify for VAT exemption, allowing you to sell without VAT and apply for refunds on VAT paid for your inputs. To claim VAT refunds, you need to provide:
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ETGB document
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Invoice
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Payment proof
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Cargo/shipping details
Marcaworld prepares all required documents and manages the refund application process on your behalf.
7. Brand Building and Digital Marketing
Success in e-export is not only about products but also about visibility. Optimize your product descriptions for SEO, use professional images, run social media ads, and set up Google Ads campaigns to drive traffic to your listings.
Marcaworld develops tailored digital marketing strategies to support your e-export growth.
Government Incentives for E-Export
Turkey’s Ministry of Trade offers various incentives to promote e-export activities. These include:
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Up to 50% support for digital advertising expenses
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Reimbursement of marketplace commission fees
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Trademark registration and promotion support
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Coverage of logistics and shipping costs
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Special incentives for software and digital service exporters
To benefit from these incentives, your company must be registered in the official system and submit regular reports. Marcaworld manages your incentive applications and reporting processes end-to-end.
What Makes E-Export Successful?
To succeed in e-export, the following factors are essential:
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Smart product selection and market research
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Professional company structure
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Seamless logistics and payment integration
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Utilization of tax exemptions and government incentives
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Effective brand positioning and online marketing
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Reliable post-sale customer service
Marcaworld provides expert consultancy and implementation in all these areas to help you succeed in global markets.
Start Strong With Marcaworld
Marcaworld offers a comprehensive, hands-on e-export service for entrepreneurs who want to go global. Services include:
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Company formation and tax setup
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Marketplace integrations (Amazon, Etsy, etc.)
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Payment and logistics infrastructure
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Tax refunds and incentive applications
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Digital marketing and brand strategy
If you're ready to take your products or services to the global stage, Marcaworld will help you manage the entire process professionally, securely, and efficiently.
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