The Turkish Association of Apparel Machinery Manufacturers (KOMİD) has voiced strong concern over the accelerating trend of textile and apparel producers relocating their operations from Türkiye to Egypt. In a recent statement, KOMİD Chairman Haluk Akın emphasized that such shifts directly impact not only brands but also the broader machinery and industrial ecosystem that serves them.
“As manufacturers of apparel machinery, we cannot remain indifferent to the increasing number of companies moving their production to Egypt,” said Akın. “If our clients are relocating to Egypt, it becomes inevitable for our industry to be involved in this transition too.”
Akın highlighted that while Egypt is actively promoting investment in its textile sector—offering attractive customs advantages and production incentives—it does not necessarily offer identical operational conditions to Türkiye. “It is essential that machinery manufacturers thoroughly evaluate the legal framework, customs system, and long-term production dynamics in Egypt before making strategic moves,” he cautioned.
He also noted past cases where investments in alternative regions failed to deliver expected results due to unforeseen difficulties. “For instance, Serbia was once seen as a rising star, but many investments there faced serious setbacks. There’s no guarantee that similar issues won’t occur in Egypt,” he warned.
KOMİD underlined that Türkiye’s apparel manufacturing sector still holds significant competitive advantages—particularly in terms of quality, logistics, and workforce skill. However, with global contract manufacturing rates averaging around $500 per worker, Türkiye is experiencing increased competitive pressure. This, combined with regional instability and rising costs, is compelling some Turkish producers to explore Egypt as an alternative.
“At this point, it is important to accept the reality: there is a shift in production. But we must approach this strategically, not emotionally,” Akın stated. “Rather than completely abandoning the local market, the industry should consider how to remain involved through machinery supply, service, and technical collaboration.”
He further noted that geopolitical developments, including potential re-openings in Syria and other regional markets, could also influence the investment landscape in the near future.
KOMİD concluded by affirming its commitment to closely monitor these developments and support Turkish machinery manufacturers in adapting to the changing global landscape while safeguarding their leadership position in international markets.
