Turkish Furniture Industry Ranks Among the World’s Top 7 — New Export Target Set at $10 Billion

Despite global economic fluctuations, Türkiye’s furniture industry continued its steady growth and reached $8.4 billion in exports in 2025. Maintaining its position as the 7th largest furniture exporter in the world, the sector has now set a new target: achieving $10 billion in exports and increasing its local production rate to 99%.

Türkiye’s furniture sector has gained significant attention in recent years thanks to its strong production capacity, expanding export network and design‑oriented growth. Hüseyin Taklacı, President of the Turkish Federation of Woodworkers and Craftsmen, emphasized that the industry remains one of Türkiye’s key economic drivers despite global uncertainties.

Furniture Exports Reach $8.4 Billion

Taklacı, who also serves as Chairman of the Elmadağ Furniture Specialized Industrial Zone, highlighted the impact of the sector’s industrialization over the past two decades. With digital transformation accelerating growth, the number of enterprises has surpassed 40,000, while employment has exceeded 420,000 people. He noted that the sector’s 2025 export performance represents a major milestone.

“Türkiye’s furniture, paper and forestry product exports reached $8.4 billion in 2025. We have solidified our position as the 7th largest furniture exporter globally,” Taklacı stated. Net furniture exports were reported at $4.6 billion.

High Value‑Added Production on the Rise

One of the most notable developments has been the increase in export value per kilogram. While Türkiye’s national average reached $3.10 per kg, cities known for craftsmanship and boutique production—such as Ankara and Adana—achieved values between $12 and $15 per kg.

Experts note that design‑focused production has significantly boosted demand for Turkish furniture in European and Gulf markets.

Gulf Region Becomes a Key Growth Market

One of the most striking developments in 2025 was the rapid rise in exports to Gulf countries. The Saudi Arabian market alone recorded over 200% growth, strengthening its position as a strategic destination for Türkiye.

Iraq remained the top export market, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, Libya and France. Additionally, the number of countries importing more than $1 million annually from Türkiye increased to 150.

Istanbul Maintains Its Leadership

In city‑based export rankings, Istanbul led with $3.5 billion, followed by:

• İnegöl/Bursa – $910 million

• İzmir – $820 million

• Kayseri – $600 million

• Gaziantep – $590 million

Industry representatives emphasized that the strengthening of production hubs across Anatolia has enhanced Türkiye’s competitive advantage in global markets.

New Goal: 99% Local Production

Taklacı noted that imported components are still used in certain categories, particularly smart furniture mechanisms and advanced lighting systems. However, new investments aim to increase domestic production.

The sector plans to raise the local production rate from 88% to 99%, especially in lighting, hardware mechanisms and chemical components. A long‑term growth projection of 10% annually until 2030 has been announced.

E‑Commerce and Augmented Reality to Shape the Future

Digitalization and sustainability are central to the sector’s future vision. Under Türkiye’s 12th Development Plan, environmentally friendly production, green transformation and e‑commerce infrastructure will be prioritized.

Taklacı stated that the industry aims to increase the share of e‑commerce to 25% through augmented‑reality‑supported sales systems, while strengthening its presence in European markets through high‑design strategies.

Source : dunya.com