GATHIB President Akcan: Textile Sector Continues Production Despite Challenges

The Southeastern Anatolia Textile and Raw Materials Exporters' Association held its regular September meeting under the chairmanship of Mete Akcan and shared the periodic export data for the first eight months of the year with the public.

January-August Export Figures

Textile exports from the Southeastern Anatolia Region reached a total value of 2 billion 373 million 77 thousand dollars in the first eight months of the year.

Officials announced that in August 2026 alone, exports worth 339 million 747 thousand dollars were made through the Textile Association.

Global Challenges and Industrialist Performance

Despite contractions in global markets and challenging competitive conditions, the performance shown by industrialists and exporters received great appreciation.

It was emphasized that regional producers continue to work tirelessly and are determined to provide added value to the national economy.

Export Success to 186 Different Countries

Textile products from the Southeastern Anatolia Region reached 186 different countries in the first eight months of 2026, demonstrating a wide geographical distribution.

It was stated that this wide geographical distribution clearly demonstrates the quality of the region's products and their strength in the international market.

Country Groups and Key Markets

The European Union was the country group with the highest exports at 664.2 million dollars, followed by Middle Eastern and African countries.

On a country basis, the United Kingdom, Iraq, Syria, the USA, and Italy were recorded as the top five important markets.

Sectoral Developments and Field Studies

It was stated that participation in international fairs and consultation meetings were organized to increase the sector's competitiveness.

It was noted that producer demands were voiced and efforts to increase the sector's added value are being carried out without interruption.