Istanbul Establishes Itself as the Industry’s New Global Hub

This January, the Carpet and Flooring Expo (CFE) 2025 returned to Istanbul for its second year, solidifying the city’s position as the new global hub for the carpet, rug, and flooring industries. While I wasn’t able to attend this year’s event, my analysis is grounded in years of closely observing the industry, attending similar trade expos, and tracking the strategic shifts that continue to redefine this market. The decision to move this event from Hannover to Istanbul—and the eventual cancellation of the German edition—underscores a fundamental transformation in the industry’s priorities and market dynamics.

The reports from CFE Istanbul 2025 highlight not only its success in terms of participation and transactions but also the optimism it has reignited in the industry. This year’s expo saw a notable increase in both exhibitors and visitors compared to its debut, with significant deals and partnerships finalized during the event. For an industry that has experienced a year of declining demand and economic uncertainty, the positive outcomes at CFE signal that better days may be ahead.

Istanbul’s rise as the host city is more than just a logistical shift—it’s a strategic move that aligns with global trade trends. As one of the world’s largest carpet exporters, Turkey contributes 17% of global exports, valued at $2.8 billion annually. Hosting CFE in Istanbul places the event at the heart of production and innovation, where centuries-old craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology. The city’s unique location, bridging Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, positions it as a gateway to emerging markets like the Gulf, North Africa, and Central Asia—regions where demand for high-quality carpets and flooring continues to grow.

This year’s CFE reflected the industry’s evolving priorities, with exhibitors showcasing innovations such as recycled rugs, antibacterial carpets, and smart flooring solutions. These offerings resonate with the rising consumer demand for sustainability, health-conscious designs, and technological integration. Istanbul adds another layer of appeal by infusing these innovations with cultural authenticity, drawing on Turkey’s centuries-old heritage of carpet weaving. This unique combination of modernity and tradition makes the event—and the products it highlights—distinctive on a global scale.

The shift from Hannover to Istanbul also underscores changing industry economics. Western European trade shows often involve high participation costs, while Istanbul offers a more affordable alternative without compromising scale or quality. This accessibility has drawn a wider and more diverse group of participants, including buyers and exhibitors from across emerging markets. Additionally, the city’s proximity to manufacturing centers and key logistics hubs enhances its strategic value, enabling streamlined supply chain partnerships and promoting direct collaborations between buyers and producers.

Perhaps most importantly, CFE Istanbul 2025 served as a much-needed turning point for an industry grappling with challenges. After a prolonged period of declining demand and market uncertainty, the expo’s success in generating transactions and building partnerships has sparked renewed hope. Industry insiders are cautiously optimistic that the positive momentum from this event will translate into improved business conditions in the coming months.

The relocation of this event to Istanbul also reflects a broader decentralization of global trade hubs, with emerging markets like Turkey playing a more prominent role in shaping industry trends. From a strategic perspective, Istanbul strikes the perfect balance between tradition, innovation, and market connectivity. It has become more than just a host city—it’s a vital platform for redefining the future of the carpet and flooring industries.

As I analyzed the direction of CFE Istanbul, it’s clear that the event’s success this year represents more than just a momentary win—it’s a signal for the industry’s potential revival. For those of us in the business, Istanbul’s leadership on this global stage is a welcome sign that the future of the rug industry is finally looking brighter.