Turkey, while being the fastest-growing and stable country in Europe in both 2010 and 2011, also ranked second globally in this regard. Our exports increased both in the overall total and in the ready-made clothing and confectionery sector. Adding our high young population, stable politics, and liberal economy to all these factors, Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) towards Turkey increased in 2011, as indicated in the UNCTAD World Investment Report. Our textile and clothing sectors are also gaining a share in terms of fabric production, accessories, ready-made clothing, confectionery, and leather products. Every day, a famous global brand invests in Turkey, whether it’s opening factories, stores, or finding distributors. Our sector combines its emphasis on R&D, innovation, and product quality with marketing to offer the world more quality products and services each day. However, many of our companies are not paying enough attention to institutionalization, which would enable them to implement the necessary plans for these efforts. If we want to be permanent, the main issue ahead is to turn towards institutionalization and implement all components from design-planning, production, promotion-marketing to logistics in synergy.
As an association, while conducting guidance on these issues, we also continue to deal with regional issues. In this context, we make necessary discussions along with our recommendations to ensure that the ongoing infrastructure and road arrangement works are completed most efficiently and as soon as possible. At the same time, we make efforts with both Turkish and relevant authorities of the countries in question regarding the issues of foreign workers employed in our region.
Elections are approaching in Russia, one of the countries where we do the most business. We are currently sending a letter to the current Prime Minister Putin to express our support. We also extend our congratulations to Turkmenistan Prime Minister Gurbanguli Berdimuhamedov, who was re-elected with over 97% in the elections held in February.
Everything for an institutionalized Laleli that has taken the necessary steps for permanence…
Giyasettin Eyyüpkoca
