The Carpet and Flooring Expo (CFE), a major event uniting the carpet and flooring sectors, has officially opened its doors at the Istanbul Expo Center. According to a statement from CFE, the event, held from January 7-10, is organized by Tuyap Fair Organization Group in collaboration with the Istanbul Carpet Exporters’ Association and the Southeastern Anatolia Carpet Exporters’ Association.
A Wide Range of Products on Display
The expo features an extensive selection of products, including handmade rugs and kilims, machine-made carpets, prayer rugs, and textile flooring materials.
Spanning 11 halls, the event has attracted participation from 600 companies and representatives, 145 of which are international exhibitors from 18 countries. The expo also hosts various events aimed at shaping the future of the industry.
Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gurcan: “We’ve Achieved the World’s Second-Highest Carpet Export Figures”
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gurcan highlighted Turkey’s success in the carpet industry:
“Our country, which has achieved the world’s second-largest export figures in the sector, is advancing further every day, reaching higher numbers. By increasing investment, employment, and exports, we are creating great added value. We continue to boost carpet exports to countries like the United States, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Kingdom,” he said.
Gaziantep Metropolitan Mayor Fatma Sahin emphasized the significance of both Istanbul and Gaziantep, saying:
“All the hardworking people you see here have put in immense effort and dedication. Their work warms the world and turns Turkey into a global design hub. Ultimately, both our homeland and Anatolian wisdom are spreading worldwide.”
TIM Chairman Mustafa Gultepe: “Our Goal for 2025 Is $279 Billion in Exports”
Mustafa Gultepe, Chairman of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), recognized the carpet industry as one of Turkey’s standout sectors, noting:
“Gaziantep, with its 80-85% dominance in the sector, has been instrumental in this success. In 2024, we collectively achieved a 2.5% increase in Turkey’s exports, reaching $262 billion. Hopefully, we will reach our 2025 target of $279 billion.”
ITO Chairman Sekib Avdagic: “We Will Do Our Best to Develop This Expo Further”
Sekib Avdagic, Chairman of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO), underlined the importance of hosting the expo in Istanbul:
“As Istanbul World Trade Center management and ITO, we will do everything in our power to further develop this fantastic expo on an international scale,” he said.