The Turkish textile sector started 2025 with a strong performance, as exports of textiles and raw materials increased by 5% compared to January 2024, reaching $986 million, according to the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters’ Association (ITHIB). However, apparel and garment exports saw a slight decline of 1%, totaling $1.2 billion.
Overall, Turkey’s total exports in January reached $21.2 billion, marking a 6% year-on-year increase. The textile and raw materials sector accounted for 5% of total exports, while, when combined with apparel, the share rose to 10.5%.
Pakistan and Egypt Show Exceptional Growth
The European Union, Africa, and Asia remained the top three destinations for Turkish textile exports, with the EU maintaining its lead in both value and quantity. Italy, Germany, and the USA were the largest individual buyers, with exports rising 5.5%, 7%, and 3.4%, respectively.
The most significant growth was observed in Pakistan and Egypt. Textile exports to Egypt surged by 73.5%, while Pakistan recorded an impressive 94% increase. On a quantity basis, Pakistan ranked first with a 108% rise in imports from Turkey, followed by China with a 102% increase. In contrast, exports to the UK and Iran declined by 4% and 8.6%, respectively.
Yarn and Technical Textiles Drive Export Growth
Yarn and technical textiles were among the most exported product groups, each rising by 8%, followed by woven fabrics with a 4% increase. Home textiles saw a moderate 3.5% growth, while knitted fabrics dropped by 6%.
Turkey exported $203 million worth of yarn in January, with Egypt, Italy, and Portugal as key buyers. Pakistan led the growth in yarn imports, registering a staggering 210% increase. Meanwhile, technical textile exports totaled $193 million, with Germany, the USA, and Italy as top markets. Morocco stood out with a 50% rise in technical textile imports.
Woven fabric exports reached $190 million, with Spain, Italy, and Morocco leading purchases. The highest growth in this category was recorded in Egypt, where exports soared by 98%.
