The Regulation on Refurbished Products (the “Regulation”), prepared by the Ministry of Trade (the “Ministry”), was published in the Official Gazette dated 27 June 2026, and the new provisions will enter into force on 1 August 2026. The Ministry also announced the key changes regarding the new framework applicable to the refurbished products ecosystem through its announcement dated 27 June 2026.
The Regulation aims to enhance transparency, consumer safety and auditability in the processes relating to the refurbishment and resale of second-hand technological products. In this respect, the scope of the Refurbished Product Information System (“YÜBİS”), which is already used in refurbished product processes, is being expanded, and products subject to refurbishment are expected to be monitored more comprehensively in a digital environment.
A digital registry record will be created for each device through YÜBİS. Information regarding the operations carried out on the device, replaced parts, lost/illegal/stolen product inquiry records, the relevant refurbishment centre and the businesses acting on behalf of such centre will be recorded in the system. In addition, refurbished product certificates are expected to become accessible through YÜBİS.
The main changes introduced by the new Regulation are as follows:
- The scope of the right of withdrawal is expanded. Consumers will be granted the right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days without providing any reason, not only for distance sales but also for refurbished products purchased from physical stores.
- Televisions are included within the scope. While mobile phones, tablets, smart watches, game consoles and modems are currently covered by the refurbishment framework, televisions will also be added to the products that may be refurbished and offered for resale under the new Regulation.
- The capital requirement for refurbishment centres is increased. The minimum paid-in capital required to obtain a refurbishment authorisation certificate is increased from TRY 30 million to TRY 100 million.
- Inspection and sanction mechanisms are strengthened. Administrative sanctions may be imposed on businesses acting in breach of the Regulation, and the authorisation certificates of refurbishment centres that harm consumers’ health, safety or economic interests may be suspended or cancelled.
Accordingly, as of 1 August 2026, processes relating to the purchase, refurbishment, certification and resale of refurbished products will need to be carried out in line with the new Regulation.
