Ahmet Şişman Elected as the New Chairman of ITHIB

Following the General Assembly of the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters’ Association (ITHIB), Ahmet Şişman, who previously served as Vice Chairman, has been elected as the new Chairman of the Board.

Running with a single list, Şişman was elected with strong support from the members. He stated that they will build on the experience gained in the previous term. Emphasizing that they do not see the new period merely as a change of duty, Şişman described it as a process of continuity and unity.

In his speech at the General Assembly, Şişman drew attention to the current challenges faced by the sector and stated that he has taken over the role with a strong sense of responsibility. Highlighting that the Turkish textile industry is not only powerful in production but also one of the cornerstones of Türkiye’s export vision, Şişman said, “We are fully aware of the great responsibility of undertaking this role during a period of high uncertainty and challenges.”

“We will Focus on Increasing Our Competitiveness”

Sharing insights into their roadmap for the new term, Ahmet Şişman stated that their goal is not only to maintain but also to enhance the sector’s competitiveness. Emphasizing the importance of placing value-added production at the center of the industry, Şişman noted that they aim to further strengthen Türkiye’s position, particularly in the European market. He said, “Our goal is clear; not only to preserve but to increase our competitiveness, to place value-added production at the core of the sector, and to position Türkiye as a stronger player in the European market.”

“Heroes of Strategic Strength”

Ahmet Öksüz, who handed over the Chairmanship to Ahmet Şişman, stated in his speech: “From the Textile Engineering Scholarship Project to the Texhibition Istanbul Fair, from sustainability initiatives to the Istanbul Textile Vocational High School, we have implemented many new projects together. Through 68 fairs and 58 delegation organizations, we brought our members together with international buyers. While making our projects more effective, I would like to thank the heroes of strategic strength who contributed with their solutions and worked for a Türkiye that grows through exports. These positions are a reflection of the collective efforts of our companies that think, produce, and progress together. In this context, I sincerely wish success to our new Chairman of the Board, Ahmet Şişman. I have full confidence that he will fulfill this role in the best possible way.”

“This Is Not a Handover, but a Process of Continuity”

Ahmet Şişman also thanked the former Chairman of ITHIB, Ahmet Öksüz, and stated that they will continue to build upon the experience gained in the previous period. He reiterated that they do not see this new term merely as a change of leadership, but as a process of continuity and unity.

“We do not see this process simply as a handover. It is also a process of continuity and unity,” said Şişman, emphasizing their determination to work for the future of the sector.

Şişman concluded his speech with the words: “As long as we act together, there is no challenge we cannot overcome. With the strength we draw from your trust, we will continue our work with determination.”