The international exhibition and trade fair “Turkmentextile Expo 2026” held in the capital of Turkmenistan was one of the most significant events of the past summer. The participation of Turkmen light-industry enterprises in the exhibition marked another important step in promoting Turkmen textiles abroad and creating new business partnerships, as textile products manufactured in Turkmenistan enjoy growing demand not only domestically but also far beyond its borders.
Addressing the forum participants, the President of Turkmenistan expressed confidence that the successful conduct of the international exhibition and trade fair “Turkmentextile Expo 2026” would make a significant contribution to the further development of the national textile industry and strengthening of international cooperation.
The large-scale exhibition provided an opportunity to showcase the potential and achievements of this important sector of the national economy, present new product lines and expand mutually beneficial business ties with foreign partners. Today, around 80 percent of textile products manufactured in Turkmenistan are exported to CIS countries, Europe, Asia and other parts of the world. Major consumers of Turkmen textile products include Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Ukraine and Turkiye. Industry enterprises regularly participate in international exhibitions and trade fairs held in China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, the Republic of Korea, Turkiye, Germany and many other countries.
The exhibition brought together leading representatives of the textile industry, featuring around 110 exhibitors, including enterprises of the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan, members of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs operating in the sector, as well as international manufacturers and suppliers of specialized machinery, dyes and chemicals for the textile industry, raw materials, packaging solutions and manufacturing materials.
The achievements of the national textile industry were vividly showcased by the exhibition stands of enterprises operating under the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan. Over the years of independence, a number of modern textile enterprises equipped with advanced technological facilities have been established across the country. The large textile complexes, cotton-spinning and garment factories, silk-processing enterprises and footwear manufacturers now produce high-quality goods from environmentally friendly raw materials, making a substantial contribution to the continued expansion of the country’s export potential.
The positive results of the comprehensive reforms being implemented to support agricultural producers and advance the industry are reflected in a number of key indicators. Turkmenistan possesses the most important resource for the effective development of its textile sector. The country produces more than one million tonnes of raw cotton annually. While in previous years a significant share of this cotton was exported, making Turkmenistan one of the world’s ten leading cotton exporters, the current objective is to ensure that 100 percent of the cotton crop is processed domestically. This approach is by no means accidental. The textile industry is the country’s second-largest source of industrial revenue after hydrocarbon exports, and it is therefore regarded as one of the principal drivers of industrial growth, export diversification and value-added production.
Thanks to strong state support, the textile industry has become one of the most dynamic sectors of Turkmenistan’s national economy. Over the years of independence, more than US$2 billion has been invested in the construction of new textile enterprises and modernization of existing facilities. Around fifteen modern textile complexes have been commissioned with the participation of foreign companies, producing goods that meet contemporary international standards of quality, management and marketing. High technology equipment supplied by leading global manufacturers has been installed at operating production facilities.
The implementation of state programmes aimed at import substitution and increasing the output of export-oriented products is an important factor in the development of the textile industry. These programmes envisage the establishment of new production facilities and modernization of existing enterprises, which will make it possible to significantly reduce imports through the domestic production of high-quality goods. Turkmenistan has developed a comprehensive sectoral programme for the technical modernization of textile enterprises and establishment of innovative industries based on the country’s own natural resources. Its implementation will help reduce dependence on imports by expanding the range and volume of domestically produced goods.
Alongside the introduction of the latest technologies, considerable attention is being devoted within the industry to improving product quality and ensuring compliance with environmental safety standards. Turkmenistan’s textile industry has traditionally focused on natural materials, a factor that makes it particularly attractive to international brands sourcing products worldwide. The products of the country’s leading textile enterprises have gained international recognition and have been awarded globally recognized industry certifications.
Turkmen textile products are gaining an increasingly strong reputation in international markets. Goods bearing the label “Made in Turkmenistan” are sold quickly through shopping centres across the world. Terry towels, sportswear and T-shirts, jeans and shirts, bed linen, underwear and socks quickly find their buyers. Their high quality and affordable prices provide a reliable foundation for winning consumer confidence. This, in turn, demonstrates that Turkmen textile products are securing a lasting presence in international markets and well positioned for sustained long-term success.
As part of the “Turkmentextile Expo 2026” international exhibition and trade fair, a major fashion show was held, featuring designers from France, Morocco, Oman, Uzbekistan, Russia and Turkmenistan on the forum’s central catwalk.
The event’s high profile was underscored by the attendance of distinguished guests, including Carlo D’Amario, Chief Executive Officer of the British fashion house Vivienne Westwood, and Marzio Nocera, founder of the Italian media platform Fashion Channel Italy. The show opened with a vibrant collection presented by the Miras Fashion House of Ashgabat, operating under the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan. Once again, its designers demonstrated that national cultural heritage can be successfully adapted to contemporary realities, acquiring new and relevant forms of expression. The rich heritage of the Turkmen people was evident even in the smallest details, from luxurious and refined fabrics to exquisitely crafted ornamental designs.
As part of the exhibition and trade fair, a series of master classes was conducted by both Turkmen and international designers. These sessions introduced industry professionals and members of the public to both traditional and innovative approaches to decorative design, production of clothing for adults and children as well as textile toys.
The forum participants were particularly interested in the seminars organized as part of the exhibition and trade fair, including “Sustainable Development and Quality Certification in the Textile Industry” and “Current Trends in the Development of the Textile Industry and the Integration of Cultural Heritage with Modern Approaches.”