Gaziantep remains a global leader in carpet production and export, significantly contributing to Turkey’s economy through robust production and international sales. The city’s carpet sector, centered in one of the country’s strongest industrial hubs, has established Gaziantep’s reputation as a dominant force in global textile trade.
World-Leading Production and Ambitious Export Goals
According to Güneydoğu Anadolu Halı İhracatçıları Birliği, Gaziantep exports carpets to 143 countries around the world, with approximately 70 percent of Turkey’s machine-made carpet exports originating from the city. During the January–November period, the region shipped carpet products worth $2.62 billion, nearly $1.78 billion of which was directly handled by the exporters’ association.
Also Read: Gaziantep Carpet Industry Shines at International Trade Fair
GAHİB Chairman Zeynel Abidin Kaplan emphasized that Gaziantep has become the locomotive of the global carpet industry, producing about 70 percent of the world’s piece carpets and supporting extensive economic activity and employment. He highlighted that the industry currently sustains around 50,000 direct jobs, with indirect impacts supporting up to 300,000 livelihoods in related sectors.
Looking ahead, Gaziantep aims to boost its carpet export value to $3 billion, reinforcing its pivotal role in keeping production and employment strong even amid global economic uncertainties. The city’s strategic expansion into diverse markets, including the United States and other high-demand destinations, reflects its commitment to maintaining growth and global competitiveness.
With its deep industrial base and continued innovation in production technology, Gaziantep’s carpet sector is poised to remain one of Turkey’s most influential economic drivers in the textile export landscape.
