US extends import ban on Turkish archaeological artifacts through 2031
The US Customs and Border Protection has extended import restrictions on archaeological and ethnological materials from Türkiye through March 24, 2031, per Federal Register notice dated May 13, 2026. The restrictions, originally established under CBP Decision 21-09, apply to certain categories of cultural artifacts. Shippers and importers must verify artifact classification and origin documentation before attempting import.
Photo: umut erdem / Pexels# US Extends Import Ban on Turkish Archaeological and Ethnological Materials
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has extended import restrictions on designated categories of archaeological and ethnological material from the Republic of Türkiye through March 24, 2031, according to a Federal Register notice published May 13, 2026.
What's restricted
The extension amends CBP regulations to maintain prohibitions originally imposed under CBP Decision Number 21-09. The restrictions target "certain categories" of archaeological and ethnological artifacts from Türkiye—specifically items of cultural significance that fall within designated material classifications.
While the Federal Register notice does not enumerate every artifact type by HS code, the restriction applies broadly to archaeological and ethnological items originating in Türkiye. Importers must treat any Turkish artifact as potentially restricted unless CBP has granted a specific exemption.
Who is affected
Any importer, auction house, museum, or collector attempting to bring Turkish archaeological or ethnological materials into the United States must now comply with the extended ban through March 2031. This includes:
- Importers of antiquities and cultural artifacts
- E-commerce merchants sourcing from Türkiye
- Freight forwarders handling Turkish shipments containing cultural materials
- Art dealers and auction houses
Compliance requirements
Importers must confirm that any material does not fall within the restricted categories before shipment. CBP may grant case-by-case waivers or exemptions for items of academic, scientific, or cultural importance, but these require advance approval. Attempting to import restricted material without authorization will result in seizure and potential penalties.
What this means for shippers
If you're moving any Turkish artifacts or materials with archaeological or ethnological significance, obtain CBP pre-approval or written classification confirmation before shipment—the ban remains in force until March 2031 and violations trigger seizure. Check the CBP website and the full Federal Register notice for the complete list of restricted categories and exemption procedures. Contact CBP or a customs broker immediately if your shipment contains or may contain Turkish cultural materials.
