Orkim Chemicals Inc., established in 1980 and headquartered in Izmir, Turkey, is a prominent manufacturer specializing in textile auxiliary chemicals and pigment dyes. Their extensive product range includes textile sizing agents, pretreatment auxiliaries, dyeing auxiliaries, printing auxiliaries, finishing auxiliaries, and denim washing auxiliaries. The company has a significant presence in the textile industry, supplying advanced chemicals designed to enhance productivity, reduce dyeing time, and address effluent-related concerns. These innovations contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices within the garment and textile sectors. Orkim Chemicals maintains an active engagement with industry stakeholders. Notably, on October 12, 2023, Chairman Tolga Ilter met with Faruque Hassan, Ex. President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), to discuss the current state and future prospects of Bangladesh’s garment industry.

Recently Team Textile Focus met with Tolga Ilter, Head Export of Orkim Chemicals and discussed about industry situation and future aspect. A brief conversation is given below for our readers-

Textile Focus: How do you see the business landscape in 2024? How has your business performed compared to the previous year?

Tolga: 2024 has been a strong year for us. Many businesses are shifting to Bangladesh, especially in the garment and government sectors. Bangladesh is emerging as a leading market, with companies increasingly moving away from China. This shift has positively impacted our business, particularly in the fabric sector.

Textile Focus: What special solutions do you provide to the Bangladeshi textile industry? How many customers do you currently support?

Tolga: We serve around 15 major clients and 20–30 smaller ones, depending on seasonal demand. Our biggest advantage is our superior customer support. Our technicians provide assistance 24/7, even to those who don’t use our products. If needed, they travel to Bangladesh to offer training and hands-on solutions.

Textile Focus: Can you elaborate on the specialized solutions you offer to the textile industry?

Tolga: We supply textile auxiliaries, pigment dyes, and speciality chemicals for textile mills, dye houses, and the garment-wash sector, especially for denim. Additionally, we source various other chemicals based on customer needs.

Textile Focus: Bangladesh recently changed its government. What are your thoughts on the political transition?

Tolga: Initially, we were concerned, but Bangladesh managed the transition smoothly. We are satisfied with the new government, and stability has returned. We had high hopes from Dr. Mohammad Yunus due to his global reputation. However, with political changes in the U.S., especially under Mr. Trump, we are uncertain about future developments.

Textile Focus: What are your future plans for the Bangladeshi market?

Tolga: We plan to set up a dilution plant in an Chittagong Export Processing Zone (CEPZ), likely in Chittagong, for local manufacturing and bonded supply. Currently, we ship from Turkey, which takes over two months. Local production will reduce costs and lead times significantly. Many companies have attempted similar projects but failed due to quality issues. To ensure success, we will station our technicians in Chittagong to oversee production and maintain high standards.