Despite economic stagnation and recession concerns in the EU, Türkiye's ready-to-wear clothing and apparel exports to Europe increased to $1.1 million in January, as per data from the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly.

Compiled by the Anadolu Agency, the data shows, Turkey’s overall exports increased by 7.1 per cent Y-o-Y to $10.3 billion in January. This growth in Turkish exports to Europe was led by the automotive industry with exports worth $2.6 billion in January. Other significant export categories included chemicals and chemical products ($1.4 billion), electricity and electronics ($752.7 million), ferrous and non-ferrous metals ($767.1 million), and steel ($691.8 million).

Geopolitical tensions from the war in Ukraine and tight monetary policies to combat high inflation have created vulnerabilities in the European economy. Global tariff threats, including potential further tariffs, also impact the region.

Despite these challenges, Europe accounted for 48 per cent of Türkiye's total exports in January. Overall, Türkiye's exports grew by 5.8 per cent Y-o-Y last month, totaling $21.1 billion.

Germany was the top destination for Turkish exports, receiving $1.6 billion in January, followed by the UK ($1.1 billion), Italy ($910.5 million), France ($795.7 million), and Spain ($774 million).

Istanbul led Turkish exports to Europe, accounting for $2.9 billion in January. Other major exporting provinces included Kocaeli ($1.4 billion), Bursa ($948.8 million), Izmir ($625.1 million), Ankara ($419.2 million), and Sakarya ($385.7 million).