Analysis of the Global Competitiveness of the Turkish Furniture Industry

This study examines the global competitiveness of the Turkish furniture industry for the 2015–2024 period by employing international trade data, market diversification metrics, and comparative advantage indices (RCA, RXA, RTA, RMA). Data obtained from UNComtrade, TURKSTAT, and Trademap reveal that the sector has undergone a significant structural transformation over the past decade. Findings indicate that Türkiye increased its furniture exports from 2.33 billion USD in 2015 to 4.50 billion USD in 2024, achieving a growth rate of 93% and rising to the 10th position among global exporters. Despite the dominance of strong global players such as China, Vietnam, and Poland, Türkiye has strengthened its international market presence notably. Product-based analysis shows that GTIP 9403 (other furniture) remains the leading export category, while GTIP 9401 (seating furniture) exhibits stable growth. Medical and surgical furniture (GTIP 9402) experienced a sharp increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the sector’s flexibility and responsiveness to global demand shifts. Market diversification analysis reveals a strategic shift from traditional Middle Eastern markets, particularly Iraq, toward high-standard European markets, with Germany becoming Türkiye’s largest export destination. Competitiveness indices demonstrate that the sector has improved from a low comparative advantage level in 2015 to a strong competitive position in 2024, with RCA and RXA values exceeding the critical threshold of 1. Moreover, the consistently positive and increasing RTA values show that the industry has strengthened its net trade advantage. Overall, the results confirm that Türkiye’s furniture industry is evolving from a cost-based production model to a globally competitive, value-added manufacturing structure, with significant potential for further growth through branding, innovation, and market diversification strategies.