GAZIANTEP CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce (GTO) is a well-established institution that has been serving both the city and the country since 1898. Recognized not only in Türkiye but also internationally for its impactful projects and achievements, GTO has been awarded first place in the World Chambers Competition on two separate occasions. With more than 36,000 members, the Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest and most influential non-governmental organizations in the city and the region.
This extensive membership base represents a significant source of strength supporting the Chamber’s activities. When the employees and families of its members are also taken into account, GTO has become an institution that touches the lives of almost the entire city.
GAZIANTEP: TÜRKİYE'S RISING STAR
Gaziantep has maintained its position as a center of trade throughout history thanks to its strategic geographical location. For centuries, the city has served as a crossroads of cultures and trade routes. Today, with its growing industrial capacity and developing manufacturing infrastructure, Gaziantep has become one of Türkiye’s brightest economic success stories.
Despite recent economic challenges experienced both nationally and internationally, confidence remains strong in the city’s continued commercial potential and economic growth. With its dynamic business environment and entrepreneurial spirit, Gaziantep has the ability to overcome these challenges and continue its development.
“WE ARE PLEASED TO SUPPORT GTM”
Emphasizing the importance of the textile industry for Gaziantep’s economy, Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mehmet Tuncay Yıldırım stated:
“The textile industry is undoubtedly one of Gaziantep’s most important and pioneering sectors. It plays a vital role in the city’s development, both economically and socially.”
Commenting on GTM, which will be organized for the first time at the Middle East Fair Center through the cooperation of the city’s public institutions and non-governmental organizations, Chairman Yıldırım said:
“We are pleased to support the Gaziantep Textile Machinery Exhibition (GTM), which we believe will create significant value for the textile industry. We have always emphasized the importance of trade fairs. Establishing new business connections, entering new markets, and keeping up with industry trends are essential for every company.
This exhibition offers textile companies valuable opportunities to develop new business partnerships, expand into new markets, and follow the latest industry trends. Trade fairs provide benefits not only to participating companies but also to the host city through the national and international visitors they attract, creating both economic and social value.
We know that companies that fail to follow industry developments and adapt to the latest technologies often struggle to remain competitive. In this regard, I believe GTM will make a significant contribution to our members and companies operating in the textile sector. Such events increase the competitiveness of businesses while enabling them to stay informed about innovations and developments within the industry.
I wish GTM great success and prosperity for the entire textile industry community and would like to underline the value that such organizations bring to the sector.”
“INVESTMENTS WILL CONTINUE”
Chairman Yıldırım also expressed his confidence that investments in the textile sector will continue despite the recent challenging economic environment.
“Although investment activity has slowed due to recent economic conditions, investments continue. Gaziantep remains an important center for both finished and semi-finished textile production.
Furthermore, several companies have begun producing raw materials through strategic investments. These investments strengthen Gaziantep’s position within the textile industry while contributing to the diversification of the city’s economy.
As the Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to support our members by addressing their needs and contributing to the economic development of our city.”
WHO IS MEHMET TUNCAY YILDIRIM?
Born in Gaziantep in 1976, Mehmet Tuncay Yıldırım graduated with honors from the Department of Business Administration at Muğla University’s Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences in 1998 due to his outstanding academic performance.
He was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce following the Chamber elections held in 2018. On 1 October 2022, he was re-elected Chairman of the Board of Directors during the Chamber’s new election term.
During Yıldırım’s presidency, GTO achieved some of the most significant successes in its history. Through its innovative projects, the Chamber won first place twice in the World Chambers Federation Competition and became the first and only chamber of commerce in Türkiye to receive the “EFQM Recognised for Excellence – 5 Star” certification.
Under his leadership, GTO also became an A-Class Chamber by achieving the second-highest score among all chambers of commerce within the TOBB Accreditation System.
Known for his active and productive leadership style, Mehmet Tuncay Yıldırım holds numerous positions at both local and national levels, including:
• Board Member, Gazişehir Gaziantep Football Club (2021)
• Vice Chairman, Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB) Chamber Councils (2018–2023)
• Member of the Entrepreneurial Committee, Gaziantep Organized Industrial Zone (2015–Present)
• Board Member, Silk Road Development Agency (2018–Present)
• Vice President, Turkish Standards Institution (TSE) (2022–Present)
• Board Member, Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB) (2023–Present)
Mehmet Tuncay Yıldırım speaks English fluently, is married, and is the father of two daughters.