The recent appreciation of the euro has created fresh opportunities for Türkiye’s textile sector, helping ease the pressure from domestic economic challenges. With the euro strengthening against the Turkish lira, exporters in the textile industry now enjoy a more favorable position in European markets.
Over the past years, the industry has been hit by rising production costs, labor shortages, and economic uncertainty. Many companies relocated their operations abroad, especially to Egypt. In 2024 alone, over 65,000 jobs were lost in the textile sector, reducing total employment to fewer than 960,000. The number of active companies also dropped by 2,000, and overall exports declined by 8%, settling around $31–32 billion.
Currency Shifts Spark Export Advantage
Despite these challenges, the strong euro has improved export competitiveness, offering renewed hope for recovery. The euro reached 1.1474 before stabilizing at 1.1365, while the dollar weakened amid concerns over U.S. economic policies. This shift gives Turkish exporters a better chance to regain market share in Europe.
First Quarter 2025 Export Performance
According to data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), Türkiye exported $65.3 billion worth of goods in the first quarter of 2025, with more than $33 billion destined for Europe. The textile industry accounted for $2.42 billion, including $925 million in exports to EU countries. Key markets include Italy, Spain, and Egypt. Fabric exports led the category at $1.47 billion, followed by yarn and fiber.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Growth
Ahmet Fikret Kileci, Head of the TIM Textile and Raw Materials Sector Board, emphasized the importance of transformation and innovation. He called for sustainable, high-tech production to ensure long-term growth and global competitiveness. Looking forward, the Turkish textile industry is focusing on expanding into new markets and aligning with global trends in sustainability and digitalization.
