Istanbul Fashion Connection opens with focus on Turkish exports

The 10th Istanbul Fashion Connection (IFCO) has opened at the Istanbul Expo Center, organized by the Istanbul Ready to Wear and Apparel Exporters' Association (İHKİB). The event, running from August 19 to 21, 2026, covers 35,000 square meters and hosts over 300 companies showcasing a wide range of products, including men's, women's, and children's clothing, denim, sportswear, leather goods, and footwear.

The opening ceremony included Trade Minister Ömer Bolat and various business leaders. Mustafa Gültepe, President of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM), emphasized that production and exports are vital to Turkey, stating that single-digit growth is insufficient for the nation's needs. He called for increased support for the industrial sector in the upcoming Medium-Term Program.

Business leaders also raised economic concerns. Şekib Avdagiç, President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (İTO), highlighted the pressure caused by the gap between inflation and foreign exchange rates, noting a decrease in foreign shopping via credit cards in Turkey. Erdal Bahçıvan, Chairman of the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (İSO), remarked that the Turkish industrial sector requires a different perspective in economic planning to ensure industry is not sacrificed for inflation control.