Working with a Turkish supplier: what to put in the contract

Turkey is one of the UK's closest manufacturing partners, especially for textiles, food, furniture and building materials. Most disputes we see start with a contract that was too short, or with no written contract at all. These are the points worth agreeing in writing before the first order.

1. The product, in detail

Describe exactly what you are buying: specifications, materials, sizes, colours, packaging and labelling. Attach approved samples or drawings and say that they form part of the contract.

2. Price, currency and payment terms

State the currency, what the price includes, and when payment is due. A common structure is a deposit on order and the balance on shipment or delivery. Agree in advance what happens if exchange rates move sharply.

3. Delivery and risk

Use a recognised Incoterms rule, such as FOB or DAP, so it is clear who pays for transport and insurance and when the goods become your risk. Add delivery dates and what happens if they are missed.

4. Quality checks and defects

Agree how goods will be inspected, by whom and when, and what the supplier must do if they are defective: replace, repair or refund, and within what time.

5. Which law applies, and where disputes go

Choose the governing law and how disputes will be resolved. Arbitration is often the practical choice for UK–Turkey contracts, because both countries are parties to the New York Convention on enforcing arbitration awards. A UK court judgment, by contrast, has to go through a separate recognition process before it can be enforced in Turkey.

6. Language

If the contract is in both English and Turkish, say which version wins if they differ.

7. Ending the relationship

Include notice periods, what happens to orders already placed, and who owns any moulds, designs or brand materials you paid for.

How we help: AY Consultancy works with UK businesses buying from or selling to Turkey, helping them prepare for negotiations, check the commercial terms, and coordinate with licensed professionals in Turkey where needed.

Disclaimer

This article is general information only and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and fees change, so check the current position for your situation. AY Consultancy provides cross-border consultancy and does not carry out reserved legal activities in the United Kingdom. Formal legal steps in Turkey are carried out by licensed professionals there.