Turkiye’s fabric exports continued to struggle in the first half of 2025, extending a downward trend that has persisted for three years. According to industry data, exports declined by around 2.
5 percent in the January–June period, falling to approximately $X.XXX billion. This persistent weakness reflects the ongoing challenges Turkiye faces in maintaining its global competitiveness within the textile supply chain.
In contrast, imports showed signs of recovery after two consecutive years of contraction. Fabric imports rose by 1.9 percent in the first half of the year, supported largely by stronger shipments from China, Egypt, and Italy. The rebound highlights improving domestic consumption and the Turkish market’s continued reliance on overseas suppliers for certain fabric categories.
On the export side, Italy retained its position as Turkiye’s leading destination for fabrics, while Belarus, Morocco, Spain, and Egypt also featured among the top markets. Despite these steady trade partners, the overall decline suggests that Turkish exporters are losing ground in key global markets, where competition from Asia and cost pressures remain strong.
The mixed trade performance underscores a pivotal moment for Turkiye’s textile sector. While rising imports indicate healthier domestic demand, the drop in exports highlights structural issues that could hinder long-term growth. Industry experts argue that a stronger focus on innovation, product quality, and market diversification will be essential if Turkiye is to restore momentum and strengthen its position in the global textile trade.
