The furniture, paper, and forest products exports reached 5.8 billion dollars in the first 9 months of the year.

The Istanbul Furniture, Paper, and Forest Products Exporters’ Association revealed the export data for September. According to the announcement, the sector’s exports of furniture, paper, and forest products, which were 679 million dollars in September 2023, amounted to 661 million dollars in the same month this year. While the sector achieved 5.8 billion dollars in exports in the first 9 months of the year, Iraq took the top spot among the most exporting countries with 815 million dollars. Following Iraq were the United Kingdom with 325 million dollars and the United States with 284 million dollars. These were followed by Germany, Libya, Iran, Morocco, France, Romania, and Georgia, with the highest increase in export share at 24% coming from the United States. President Erkan Özkan of the Istanbul Furniture, Paper, and Forest Products Exporters’ Association stated that despite the economic fluctuations arising from difficulties in accessing raw materials, disruptions in the supply chain, and international tensions in global trade, the sector continued steadily towards its 8 billion dollar export target. Özkan expressed: “Our industry faces many pressures in exports due to economic fluctuations, raw material issues, and expectations regarding sustainability. However, we are steadfastly moving forward in the face of all these challenges. Our exporters continue to enhance their competitive advantage in the global market by embracing innovative production techniques and environmentally-friendly practices. By increasing our export potential through country visits, participation in various fairs, and trade events, and with our strategic market diversification policies, we are achieving stable success. Currently, we have reached 5.8 billion dollars in exports as of the first 9 months of the year. We plan to complete 2024 by utilizing the remaining 3 months efficiently to reach our target of 8 billion dollars.”