Turkey's Ready-to-Wear and Apparel Sector Targets $17 Billion Export in 2024, Marking a New Competitive Era

Turkey's ready‑wear and apparel sector is eyeing a $17 billion export target for 2024, signaling a new competitive phase backed by solid performance and strategic advantages.

Current Sector Performance

According to AA reporter data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), the country recorded $24.94 billion total exports in June, with ready‑wear and apparel exports reaching $1.376 billion, a 15.1% increase year‑on‑year. The sector accounted for 6.3% of total exports during this period. For the January‑June window, exports amounted to $7.98 billion, reflecting a 1.6% decline.

Competitive Edge and Value Chain

Leveraging proximity to Europe, the sector minimizes inventory costs and shelf‑life risks, delivering an average export value of $18/kg, twelve times the national average of $1.5/kg. Approximately 35 k firms and 502 k employees produce goods, positioning Turkey as the 6th largest global supplier.

Strategic Outlook for 2025‑2027

IHKİB President Mustafa Paşahan projects $18.5 billion plus in exports by 2027. A 10% increase in per‑kilogram export value is targeted, while a $12 billion trade surplus is expected for 2025.

Policy and Support Requests

Industry leaders call for extending the 6th‑region incentives by 10 years, reducing SGK contributions, and boosting support measures. Timely implementation is deemed critical for preserving competitiveness and ensuring a swift recovery.

Markets are closely monitoring Turkey's robust export growth and high‑value apparel production. The sector's proximity to Europe and flexible manufacturing align with global brands' nearshoring strategies. Consequently, prompt policy support will positively shape HFT flows, FX expectations, and reinforce domestic firms' position within the value chain.