The International Competitiveness Development Support (UR-GE) Project, carried out under the umbrella of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO) to enhance the global competitiveness of Türkiye’s optical industry, has received official approval from the Ministry of Trade. Designed to expand the sector’s export potential, strengthen its institutional infrastructure and increase its share of global markets, the project will be implemented continuously over the next three years with the support of the Ministry. Through its comprehensive support mechanisms, the initiative aims to help participating companies better prepare for international markets, establish new business partnerships and develop sustainable export strategies. Backed by the Ministry of Trade, the project is expected to make a significant contribution to the progressive and forward-looking transformation that the Turkish optical industry has long needed. As part of the program, participating companies will receive substantial government support in a wide range of strategic areas, including needs analyses, corporate training and consultancy services, overseas marketing activities in target markets and international buyer delegation programs. Over the three-year period, the project also aims to encourage companies to act collectively through a cluster-based approach and strengthen their position as competitive players in international markets. Mehmet İkizoğlu, Assembly Member of the Opticians and Watchmakers Professional Committee of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, who played a key role in the development of the project, commented: “We are extremely proud to announce that our UR-GE project, which we have pursued with great dedication and determination through the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, has been approved by the Ministry of Trade. We believe this project, which will be implemented meticulously over the next three years, will significantly strengthen the position of Türkiye’s optical industry in global markets. I hope this initiative, which will broaden our sector’s vision and accelerate its export ambitions, will bring lasting benefits to all our manufacturers, designers and stakeholders.” Considered an important milestone by industry representatives, the initiative is expected to increase the international visibility of Türkiye’s capabilities in optical manufacturing and design while supporting the sector’s long-term growth objectives. Further details regarding the first phase of the International Competitiveness Development Support Project and participation procedures will be announced by the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce in the coming weeks.

June 2026