Turkish apparel industry eyes US boost via IHKIB-WRAP partnership

18 Mar '24

2 min read

Agreement signing ceremony. Pic: IHKIB

Insights

The Istanbul Apparel Exporters' Association (IHKIB) and the Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) have partnered to enhance Turkish apparel exports to the US by promoting ethical and sustainable production standards.
This collaboration includes a pilot project for WRAP certification training to boost Turkish companies' presence in the US market.

In a strategic move poised to significantly bolster Turkish apparel exports to the US, the Istanbul Apparel Exporters' Association (IHKIB) has signed a collaboration agreement with the Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP). This partnership aims to elevate Turkiye's standing in the global apparel market by ensuring that its exports meet the highest standards of ethical and sustainable production.

Highlighting the significance of this partnership, Selcuk Mehmet Kaya, chairman of the International Relations and Sustainability Committee of IHKIB, and Avedis Seferian, president and CEO of WRAP, signed a Good-Will Agreement. This pact inaugurates a pilot project targeting the elevation of Turkish apparel companies' profile in the US market. Selected companies will be encouraged to pursue WRAP certification, with WRAP providing comprehensive support through both in-person and virtual training, free of charge. This initiative not only aims to streamline the certification process for Turkish exporters but also seeks to fortify the commercial and cultural ties between Turkiye and the US.

IHKIB, which represents the lion's share—80 per cent—of Turkiye's apparel export sector, has long been at the forefront of initiatives designed to enhance the industry's global reach and operational excellence. The association's proactive engagement in facilitating market access and fostering sectoral innovation underscores its pivotal role in Turkiye's economic landscape.

The collaboration with WRAP, a prestigious US-based non-profit organisation, underscores a mutual commitment to advancing safe, legal, and ethical practices within the textile and apparel sector. WRAP certification, revered globally, signifies adherence to rigorous standards in workers' rights, health and safety, environmental stewardship, and legal compliance. This certification is instrumental in mitigating audit fatigue and propelling competitive advantage on the world stage, a boon for the over 3,500 WRAP-certified facilities worldwide.

"This partnership with WRAP aligns seamlessly with our mission to guide IHKIB members towards excellence, sustainability, and global competitiveness, ultimately contributing to our goal of increasing Turkish apparel exports in the lucrative US market," said Selcuk Mehmet Kaya.

"WRAP is committed to promoting responsible and ethical practices in the global textile and apparel industry. Partnering with organisations like IHKIB allows us to extend our reach and contribute to the success of Turkish exporters, reinforcing our shared values,” said Avedis Seferian.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)

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