Metamorphosis project strengthens digital transformation
Turkey’s apparel industry has taken a significant step forward with the completion of the “From Design to Production: Digital Transformation in the Apparel Industry (metamorphosis)” project, led by the Istanbul Apparel Exporters Association (IHKIB) under the EU’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA-2) program.
Speaking at the closing event, Mustafa Paşahan emphasized the industry’s resilience despite cyclical challenges. “We take a long-term perspective. Apparel will remain crucial for the Turkish economy for years to come. With this awareness, we are building an infrastructure that strengthens our position in global trade,” he said.
The project secured €10.4 million in EU funding and focused on analyzing the apparel and textile sectors, developing a Digital Transformation Roadmap, and training SMEs. More than 100 SMEs benefited from digital transformation and social compliance consultancy services, while 125 SME representatives received Digital Fashion Design Training. Additionally, 60 companies underwent a Digital Maturity Assessment to enhance operational efficiency.
Investment in green and branded production
Highlighting the need for value-added production, Paşahan stated, “The price-focused competition model is fading. Instead, we must focus on design, innovation, and branding.” Turkey’s apparel brands already have over 3,000 stores across 100 countries. However, he stressed that digital and green transformation often referred to as the twin transition—will shape the sector’s future.
The European Union’s total grant support for Turkey’s textile and apparel sector has now reached €37 million, contributing to digitalization, sustainability, and brand development. Among upcoming initiatives, a ‘Carbon Footprint Monitoring and Reduction’ project will be launched to align with the EU Green Deal. IHKIB has also secured funding under the European Digital Innovation Hubs Program, further supporting technological advancements in the industry.
Turkey’s competitive sectors program utilizes €500 million in EU funds
Deputy Minister of Industry and Technology Zekeriya Coştu highlighted Turkey’s long-standing collaboration with the EU under the IPA framework. “Since 2007, we have utilized IPA funds to enhance institutional and commercial capacities. In the first phase of the Competitive Sectors Program, we allocated €500 million-€400 million from the EU and €100 million from our national budget to 46 projects focused on regional development,” he said.
The ongoing IPA-2 phase, with a budget of €260 million, supports R&D, digital transformation, and green initiatives across 23 provinces. “Our goal is to create a more technology-driven, efficient, and competitive ecosystem,” Coştu stated. “The Metamorphosis project, a key part of this initiative, will enhance SMEs’ compliance with international standards and promote environmentally friendly production.”
Jurgis Vilcinskas, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Turkey, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Turkey’s textile and apparel transformation. “Since 2007, the EU has invested €780 million to enhance Turkey’s industrial competitiveness and innovation. Our collaboration with IHKIB continues to evolve, fostering digitalization and sustainability in the sector,” he said. This partnership underscores the importance of Turkey-EU cooperation in shaping a greener and more innovative future for the apparel industry.
