Turkish investments drive 7% rise in Egypt’s total garment exports in 2025 H1

Egypt's apparel exports rose by 7% in the first half of 2025, supported by fresh investments from Turkish textile manufacturers, according to the Textile Export Council of Egypt (TEC).

Official figures show export revenues increased from $538 million in the first six months of 2024 to $577 million in the same period this year, marking a $39 million gain.

Türkiye remains the largest export destination for Egyptian garments

Sector representatives attribute the growth to the recent arrival of several Turkish companies in Egypt, a development that has injected both capital and technical expertise into the country's textile and garment industry. Local industry leaders say this inflow of investment has helped the sector regain some of its earlier momentum.

Muhammed Abdel Salam, head of the Ready-Made Garments and Textiles Chamber at the Federation of Egyptian Industries, said Türkiye retained its position as Egypt's biggest apparel export market in the first half of 2025.

Türkiye remains the largest importer of Egyptian garments

Shipments to Türkiye reached $236 million during the period, representing 41% of Egypt's total garment exports, as the country has been sourcing products from Egypt due to competitive advantages, while local producers face rising costs and financial difficulties.

Algeria was the second-largest market with $64 million, while Italy followed closely with approximately $58 million.

The "ready-made garments" category refers to clothing products manufactured in factories and sold in finished form, rather than tailored individually. Industry observers note that this category forms the backbone of Egypt's textile export earnings.

Export growth aims for $1.5B by 2026

TEC Chairman Hani Salam said the council has set an export target of $1.5 billion by 2026. He expressed confidence in reaching this goal, citing the current pace of foreign direct investment in the sector.

The chairman noted that the presence of new foreign investors, particularly from Türkiye, is already contributing to higher production capacity and greater access to export markets.

According to Türkiye's Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK), Türkiye's investments in Egypt have reached $3 billion to date, with the country hosting more than 1,700 Turkish companies. Around 200 factories are concentrated in textiles, apparel, and chemical manufacturing, with an estimated $500 million invested in these sectors.