At a pivotal industry meeting in Istanbul, Mustafa Gültepe, Chairman of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) and the Istanbul Ready-to-Wear and Apparel Exporters’ Association (İHKİB), called for an urgent update of the Customs Union between the European Union and Türkiye. Speaking at the event titled “The Transformation Journey of the Turkish Ready-to-Wear Industry,” Gültepe said that the agreement in its current form restricts collaboration rather than supporting it.

“The Customs Union must be updated in line with shifting economic paradigms,” he stated. “Long-term competitiveness in the EU market is only possible through full modernisation of the Customs Union. Türkiye should also be included in the EU’s free trade agreements with third countries to enable trilateral cumulation.”

The high-level event brought together Turkish exporters, international brands, and sector experts to explore the evolving role of Türkiye’s ready-to-wear industry amid digital and green transformation trends. Gültepe underscored that the sector remains a vital contributor to the Turkish economy through its value-added production, employment, and strong export performance — with nearly 70% of exports destined for Europe.

Highlighting the role of the EU market, Gültepe detailed ongoing efforts to align Türkiye’s production ecosystem with European sustainability goals. He noted that Türkiye had secured €37 million in EU grants to support recycling, carbon footprint reduction, digitalisation, and social compliance efforts. “We are already reaching or exceeding European standards in several areas,” he said. “With this, we are well on track to complete our twin transformation.”

Gültepe also pointed to Türkiye’s strategic role in the face of global trade volatility. “Increased uncertainties and trade tensions, such as the Israel-Iran conflict, have made Türkiye’s position even more critical. Our proximity to Europe, flexible and efficient production systems, and strong logistics make us the most reliable representative of the close sourcing model.”

Support for Türkiye’s transformation journey came from key global stakeholders. Cem Altan, President of the International Apparel Federation (IAF), praised the event’s role in driving sustainability in line with the EU Green Deal. EURATEX President Mario Jorge Machado echoed the call for an updated Customs Union, highlighting the potential of EU-Türkiye cooperation to offer a model of strategic resilience and sustainable innovation. Steve Lamar, President of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), also lent support remotely, emphasising Türkiye’s strong partnerships with American brands and its reputation for quality and reliability.

Looking ahead, Gültepe called on all industry stakeholders to play their part: “Public bodies must support transformation investments, buyers must favour long-term, value-based partnerships, and financial institutions must prioritise sustainability. Shared responsibility is the key to a future-ready industry.”

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