Istanbul - Turkish producers of fabrics, curtains and trims are rededicating themselves to export efforts in the aftermath of two serious earthquakes and a 1998-99 market meltdown in the ex-Russian republics, which are just beginning to see a recovery.

Several Turkish producers went bankrupt in 1999, especially the small home textile producers in Bursa, a source said.

Other producers saw a decline in profit margins in the face of the weaker Turkish lira, an inflation rate of 50 percent annually and imported raw material prices pegged to the U.S. dollar.

Still, Turkish producers are fighting their way back into important markets. Even new textile companies like Pektas in upholstery and Gocay and Ulusoy in 'fantasy effect' curtains are starting to penetrate the export market for the first time in spite of the tough competition. Veteran producers like Zorlu, Izmir Pamuk Mensucat (IPM) and Oz-Is are targeting the U.S.A. more aggressively by establishing local sales offices to get closer to their American customers. European offices are also being planned.

However, competition from China weighs heavily on the minds of Turkish producers of curtains and upholstery as Turkey readies itself for full membership in the European Community.

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