Türkiye once again demonstrated its global strength in textiles and fashion during the eighth edition of Istanbul Fashion Connection (IFCO), organized by the Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (IHKIB) from August 20 to 22 at the Istanbul Fair Center. The event, recognized as Europe’s largest ready-to-wear fair, attracted 20,000 professional visitors from more than 100 countries, marking a 22% rise in foreign attendance compared to last year.
At the opening, Deputy Trade Minister Özgür Volkan Ağar emphasized the significance of the event in showcasing Türkiye’s production capacity, design talent, and trade vision. Speaking to reporters, Nejdet Ayaydın, IHKIB board member and chairman of the Events Committee, underlined that the ready-to-wear sector has been at the forefront of Türkiye’s export-led growth since the 1980s, providing millions of jobs while positioning the country as a reliable global production hub.
“Our sector’s strength lies not only in capacity but also in speed, flexibility, quality, sustainability, and design. IFCO is a platform where we can present these strengths directly to the world,” Ayaydın noted.
He added that the fair’s success was not just in numbers but in the quality of international buyers, many of whom signed new business agreements during the event. “IFCO is not just a fair boosting export figures; it is also a stage presenting the creative side of Turkish fashion,” he said.
Creative Highlights: The Core Platform
One of the most striking features of this year’s IFCO was The Core platform, where 24 Turkish designers showcased their collections in a concept closer to a fashion week than a trade fair. Unlike traditional sales-focused booths, The Core offered a creative exhibition space highlighting design, storytelling, and aesthetic identity.
“The Core reminded the world that Türkiye is not only a production powerhouse but also a country of creativity, cultural richness, and unique design language,” Ayaydın emphasized.
With its blend of production strength, innovative design, and cultural creativity, IFCO reinforced Türkiye’s strategic position in the global fashion ecosystem and its growing role as a trusted and creative partner for international buyers.
