The TDK Leather & Fur Fashion Show, held in Antalya’s Belek district, has welcomed nearly 800 international buyers from 18 countries, solidifying its role as one of the largest global gatherings in the leather apparel industry. According to Türkiye Leather Apparel Manufacturers Association (TDKD) President Cengiz Sarıgül, the event is expected to generate over $100 million in commercial volume throughout the year.
Highlighting Türkiye’s unmatched production power, Sarıgül stated:
“In terms of quality, design and production capabilities, no country surpasses Türkiye. Today, 5 out of every 100 leather jackets worn globally are made with Turkish leather.”
“Türkiye offers unmatched diversity in leather fashion”
With 56 participating companies, each presenting at least 100 new designs, the fair showcases over 5,600 new models—a scale Sarıgül describes as unparalleled worldwide.
“Buyers prefer Türkiye because they cannot find this level of variety and quality elsewhere. Türkiye is a trend-setting country in global leather fashion,” he added.
Industry prepares for post-war growth
Although the Russia–Ukraine war disrupted traditional markets, Sarıgül noted strong demand from Europe and the U.S. If the war ends, he predicts a surge in demand that Türkiye may struggle to keep up with. Rising energy, labor and chemical costs remain the sector’s biggest challenges.
İDMİB: “Leather apparel exports reach 133 times Türkiye’s average unit value”
Türkiye Exporters Assembly Leather Sector Chair and İDMİB President Güven Karaca emphasized the sector’s high added value:
“We reached $146 per kilogram—133 times Türkiye’s export average.”
Karaca highlighted 41% growth in exports to the U.S., noting that America has become a primary target market.
“Our goal for 2026 is not ‘target countries’ but a ‘target world.’ E-commerce will be our main driver.”
“Turkish leather is in the global league”
Karaca pointed out that Turkish leather jackets are now visible worldwide.
“Brand creation is essential for added value. As global branding shifts toward Asia, Türkiye holds a strategic bridge position. We are in an incredibly advantageous period,” he said.
