On the morning of 23 October, the IAF General Assembly unanimously accepted the IAF's Board of Director's proposal to extend Altan's term for a further two years.

Altan, who is in the apparel sector himself, as founder of Aycem Textiles in Türkiye, is member of the Board of Directors for the Istanbul Apparel Exporters Association (IHKIB) and of the Turkish Clothing Manufacturers Association (TCMA).

IAF explains that his term extension reflects the IAF’s strong focus on uniting apparel manufacturers globally and defending their interests.

In his opening speech at the ongoing 38th World Fashion Convention, organised by the IAF and the Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas (SPESA) in Philadelphia, US, Altan referred to IAF's mission to enable and promote stronger, smarter and more sustainable supply chains.

He further explained that demand has taken a big hit this year with production capacity in factories too low and the transition, too slow.

Altan adds: "This conference won’t spend too much time describing problems – we’re focused on the solutions to make apparel supply chains smarter and more sustainable. It makes no sense speaking about sustainability without talking about the models that will require change."

The World Fashion Convention aims to educate delegates on the current trends and issues impacting fashion industry.

Additionally, the IAF will be signing agreements with Spanish fashion brand conglomerate Inditex, the International Trade Centre and Better Buying amongst others.