According to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) and the Ministry of Trade, exports of knitted and crocheted garments (HS **) slipped *.* per cent to $*.*** billion in the first five months, while woven apparel and clothing accessories (HS **) declined *.* per cent to $*.*** billion. The sharper contraction in May weighed on the cumulative performance.
In May ****, exports of knitted garments fell **.* per cent year on year to $***.** million, while woven apparel exports dropped **.* per cent to $***.** million. Combined shipments under HS ** and HS ** totalled $*.*** billion, down **.** per cent, from a year earlier.
Despite the sharp May decline, apparel exports had shown a temporary improvement in April ****, indicating that the latest monthly setback reversed the previous month**;s recovery.
Türkiye**;s apparel exporters continue to operate in a challenging global environment marked by subdued consumer spending, cautious inventory management by international brands and retailers, and persistent geopolitical and trade uncertainties. While easing inflation in some major economies has improved consumer confidence, apparel demand remains uneven across key markets, leading buyers to place smaller and more frequent orders. At the same time, rising competition from lower-cost sourcing destinations and ongoing cost pressures have weighed on Türkiye**;s export performance.
