IZMIR, April 14 (Bernama) -- Turkey's first organic textile fair "Organic Fashion Izmir (OFI)" began in the western province of Izmir Thursday, reports Anadolu news agency.

The three-day event is organised by the Aegean Clothing Manufacturers' Association (EGSD).

Apart from worldwide famous companies such as Adidas, H&M, Puma, Otto, Nike, Li-Fung, Marks&Spencer, Nike and GAP, textile firms from Germany, Belgium, Denmark, France, Spain, Poland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Jordan are participating in this year's trade show.

In his opening remarks, EGSD Chairman Emre Kizilgunesler said that Turkey was the world's fourth biggest exporter of textiles.

"Our textile exports amounted to US$15 billion in 2010 and organic textile exports reached US$60 million.

Turkey has begun exporting organic textile products to more than 30 countries. Last year the world's organic textile market reached US$6.8 billion.

"We want to increase our share in this market in the coming years," he added.

On the sidelines of the fair, a seminar on "Sustainable Business Opportunities for the Turkish Textile Industry" was held with the participation of representatives from leading textiles companies.