With its rich history dating back to the Ottoman Empire, Türkiye has long been known for its thriving textile industry. And now, the latest figures indicate that the industry is going from strength to strength, achieving a record $15.8 billion in exports in 2022. This impressive success story is set to continue, with projections suggesting that Türkiye's textile exports will reach $17 billion by the end of 2023.
One of the most remarkable achievements of the Turkish textile industry is its success in the US market. By the end of 2021, textile exports to the US had already surpassed the $1 billion mark, with leading EU brands also turning to Turkish producers for their products. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the industry has continued to demonstrate its resilience and competitiveness, with Türkiye surpassing the US in global apparel exports in 2020, according to a market study by Statista.
The success of Türkiye's textile industry is a result of its strategic location, skilled labor force, and efficient production capabilities. More than 40,000 firms employ approximately 4 million people in the Turkish textile industry, and the adoption of technology, innovation, and sustainable practices has helped the industry stay competitive in the global market.
In addition to textile production, Türkiye is also ranked first in Europe in terms of cotton production. The handmade carpet industry is also experiencing significant growth, contributing $3.8 billion to the country's economy in 2022. Despite the advent of modern technology, 99% of all carpets produced in Türkiye are still made by hand, with women weaving in their homes or in factories.
As a result of its quality and affordability, Türkiye's textile industry is a compelling destination for global brands seeking reliable and high-quality textile products. With its rich history, skilled workforce, and commitment to sustainability, Türkiye's textile industry is undoubtedly one to watch in the coming years.
To know more about Türkiye's textile industry and how you can begin benefitting from importing Turkish products, please contact us.