As cross-border e-commerce continues its global expansion, regulatory challenges are following closely behind. Temu, the Chinese online marketplace, recently underwent an unannounced inspection at its Istanbul office by Turkish authorities, signaling growing oversight of international platforms.
On January 22, officials from Turkey's Competition Authority conducted an on-site examination at Temu's Istanbul location, seizing several computer devices. While the agency clarified this action doesn't constitute a formal investigation, the precise reasons remain undisclosed. Temu confirmed cooperating with regulators but offered conflicting statements about whether equipment was confiscated.
Shifting Regulatory Landscape
Turkey's Ministry of Trade recently announced the elimination of import tax exemptions for e-commerce purchases under €30, effective February 2027. The policy change addresses complaints from domestic manufacturers about unfair competition and safety standards for imported goods.
In preparation for the new regulations, Temu has announced plans to establish a local Turkish entity by June 2025 and open its platform to domestic sellers. This strategic shift toward localization demonstrates how global platforms are adapting to increasingly complex compliance requirements.
Global Implications
The Istanbul incident highlights the growing importance of regulatory compliance for cross-border e-commerce operators. As governments worldwide implement stricter oversight, platforms must proactively align with local laws to maintain competitive positioning.
Industry observers note that successful global expansion now requires more than competitive pricing and wide selection—it demands careful navigation of diverse legal frameworks and proactive engagement with regulatory bodies.