About Istanbul Apparel Conference
The Turkish apparel industry, with an annual production value of 26 billion USD, exports worth 17.9 billion USD, and employment reaching 590,000 people, stands among the driving forces of the Turkish economy. Founded in 1976, the Turkish Clothing Manufacturers’ Association (TGSD) set out to support the development of the apparel industry, provide strategic direction, promote the sector internationally, and strengthen industry collaboration. Today, with over 450 members responsible for 70% of Türkiye’s apparel exports, TGSD operates as a leading non-governmental organization with public-benefit status, covering the entire value chain of the industry.
Since 2008, the Istanbul Apparel Conference has been held annually without interruption and has earned a place in the international calendar. This year, it will open its doors for the 18th time, bringing together over 1,000 participants. The conference continues to strengthen its position as a dynamic platform where the latest industry developments and strategies that will shape the future are discussed.
On the first day, the conference will unfold under the theme “Compass for a New Order”, structured around four critical routes. The Route to the New Order will focus on how the sector can reposition itself in light of changing economic balances, financing structures, and global competition conditions, exploring transformation scenarios, reliable financial instruments, and sustainable business models. The Route to New and Distant Markets will examine entry strategies into strategic target markets such as the United States, while also discussing how to deepen engagement in existing markets like the European Union and move up the value chain. The Route to Innovation will highlight how technology is reshaping not only production but also design and distribution, with discussions on AI-powered systems, smart manufacturing technologies, next-generation materials, and sustainable innovation solutions. Finally, the Route to Branding will address how Turkish brands can stand out on the global stage through the rise of e-commerce, opportunities in micro-export, and digital branding strategies, focusing on building a strong brand identity in the digital space. Together, these routes will make the first day of the conference a comprehensive vision session where ideas and roadmaps shaping the industry’s transformation will be presented.
On the second day, the program will continue with over 1,500 B2B meetings designed to enhance the export capacity of the apparel and textile sector. Buying groups representing brands from across the globe—primarily from Europe—as well as leading Turkish e-commerce platforms and local manufacturers will engage in direct contact through B2B Speed Network Meetings.