Textile Industry in Istanbul Faces Crisis: 'Once a Privilege, Now a Stigma'

In recent years, the Turkish textile industry has encountered severe challenges due to escalating production costs, a controlled foreign exchange rate, and stiff international competition. According to local textile merchants in Istanbul's Merter district, sales have plummeted by half, leading many businesses to shut their doors. As a result, workers are increasingly seeking employment outside the textile sector, reflecting a troubling trend in this once-thriving industry. Merchants express their frustration, noting that Turkish manufacturers are losing their competitive edge against countries like Egypt and China. The situation has become so dire that many in the industry feel ashamed to identify themselves as textile workers, a stark contrast to the sector's previous standing as a respected profession. This shift underscores the urgency for government intervention to support local producers. Amidst these struggles, the call for assistance from the state has grown louder. Industry representatives argue that without immediate action and support measures, the textile sector could face irreversible damage. The future of thousands of jobs hangs in the balance as the industry navigates this critical juncture, highlighting the need for a strategic response to revive its fortunes.