The METAMORPHOSIS Project, led by the Ministry of Industry and Technology and executed under the EU’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA-2) programme, has concluded with notable achievements in digital and green transformation for Türkiye’s apparel sector. The project was implemented by the Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (İHKİB) and received a €10.4 million grant from the European Union.

At the closing event, Mustafa Paşahan highlighted the apparel industry’s pioneering role in sustainability and digitalisation. The initiative included sector-wide assessments, the development of a Digital Transformation Roadmap, and extensive training and consultancy services for SMEs. Over 125 SME representatives benefited from Digital Fashion Design Training, while 60 companies underwent Digital Maturity Assessments. Additionally, more than 100 SMEs received digital transformation and social compliance consultancy, and 100 testing and analysis services were conducted to enhance quality standards.

A key achievement of the project was the launch of the Digital Transformation Center (DDM) in 2022, which now serves as an assessor for businesses’ digital maturity, investment planning, and strategic roadmaps under the Ministry of Industry and Technology’s digital transformation support programme.

Paşahan also underscored the growing importance of value-added production, innovation, and branding for maintaining competitiveness in the fashion industry. Türkiye’s apparel brands, which operate over 3,000 stores in 100 countries, are well-positioned for global expansion. The industry’s twin transition towards digitalisation and sustainability is seen as a critical factor in maintaining Türkiye’s competitive edge in global fashion markets.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Technology, Zekeriya Coştu, noted that Türkiye has leveraged EU IPA funds since 2007 to enhance industrial competitiveness and innovation. In the first phase of the Competitive Sectors Programme, €500 million was allocated, with €400 million sourced from EU funds. The second phase, consisting of 43 projects with a total budget of €260 million, focuses on R&D, innovation, green transformation, and digitalisation.

Jurgis Vilcinskas, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Türkiye, acknowledged the progress made in aligning Türkiye’s textile and apparel sectors with EU sustainability and digitalisation goals. He reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Türkiye’s transformation in these industries through continued cooperation and investment.

The METAMORPHOSIS Project is expected to have a lasting impact on Türkiye’s apparel sector, driving further advancements in digitalisation, compliance with international standards, and sustainability.

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