We were together with Mr. Berke İÇTEN, President of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturers Association (TASD), at his stand during our stand tour within the scope of Aymod fair, where shoes are in the journey of all humanity from past to present, to introduce the Turkish Shoe Industry to the world and to increase its integration with global supply chains.
First of all, we would like to get to know you?
I have been the president of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturers Association (TASD) for two years. I have worked at various levels in the Turkish Footwear Manufacturers Association (TASD) since 2008. I have worked in many non-governmental organizations in the shoe industry. Additionally, I continue to serve as vice president at the Turkish Footwear Industry Research, Development and Education Foundation (TASEV).
I am the second generation board member of our family company that produces football shoes. I am a Master’s Degree Mechanical Engineer.
How many times has AYMOD been organized this year? Could you share some details?
We are holding the 73rd edition of AYMOD, which has been organized uninterruptedly for 36 years. The fair covers 40,000 square meters in four halls, hosting 252 companies, including 36 foreign participants. Exhibitors are presenting their Spring/Summer 2025–2026 collections to buyers and purchasing groups. With the support of the Ministry of Trade and our own budget, we invited more than 600 purchasing professionals from 55 countries to the fair. Over four days, our aim is to enhance the export potential of the Turkish footwear industry.
We are now on the third day of the fair. What are your observations so far?
The current economic context, both globally and domestically, is challenging. The Russia-Ukraine war, sanctions, reduced purchasing power, Europe’s demand shrinkage, and tariff wars in the U.S. have slowed down the market. Additionally, one of Italy’s major footwear fairs overlaps with ours, adding competition.
Despite these, AYMOD has maintained its energy. In 2022, Türkiye exported 240 million pairs of shoes in the first seven months; in 2025, this dropped to 94 million. Although visitor numbers are lower, the fair attracts “real buyers.” Especially the B2B meetings have been highly successful, with positive feedback from companies.
Labor shortages and companies shifting production to countries like Egypt are often discussed. What is your view?
In apparel, Egypt has become a significant hub, and in footwear, several firms have started sourcing from there. Imports from Egypt, nonexistent in 2024, have already reached $6–7 million this year and may hit $11–12 million by year’s end. While this is still a small share of Türkiye’s $1.8 billion footwear imports, in the long term Egypt could become a competitor in our export markets.
Türkiye’s strong lira, high inflation, and expensive production environment make imports cheaper than local production. High taxes on raw materials, untested imports from Far Eastern e-commerce platforms, and counterfeit shoes are major threats. Quick solutions are needed in these areas.
What about the Ministry of Education’s policy on school shoes?
Previously, there was the concept of “school shoes.” Today, with free dress codes, young people push their families to buy expensive branded sneakers, creating financial pressure. We propose non-branded, healthy, durable leather shoes. This would prevent status competition, support family budgets, and instill in children the habit of caring for long-lasting products. We presented this idea to the Ministry of Education, and they are considering it with the Ministry of Health.
Could AYMOD merge with the sub-industry fair in the future?
Currently, there are no such plans. We hold AYMOD in early September, while the sub-industry fair takes place in mid-November. If dates align and companies are supportive, it could be possible in the future.
Any final thoughts?
Our sector is going through tough times, but we must remain motivated, keep innovating, and stay competitive.
