The global textile industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with knitted garments playing a vital role in international trade. Knitted garments, known for their versatility and comfort, have gained immense popularity worldwide. In this article, we will explore the top 10 knitted garment exporting countries in the world based on the data from 2021 to 2022, including their export figures, percentage change, and share in global exports.
According to the latest data from the International Trade Center (ITC), the global knitted garment exports in 2022 reached 297.9 billion US dollars, which was a 9% increase from 2021. The top 10 knitted garment exporting countries in the world in 2022 were as follows:
Country | 2021 (US$ Billion) | 2022 (US$ Billion) | Percentage change | Share in global exports |
China | 86.46 | 90.94 | 5% | 30.5% |
Bangladesh | 25.60 | 31.00 | 21% | 10.4% |
Viet Nam | 15.73 | 21.47 | 36% | 7.2% |
Germany | 13.34 | 13.34 | 0% | 4.5% |
Italy | 11.29 | 12.37 | 10% | 4.2% |
Türkiye | 10.78 | 11.01 | 2% | 3.7% |
India | 7.87 | 8.42 | 7% | 2.8% |
Spain | 6.75 | 6.98 | 3% | 2.3% |
Netherlands | 7.04 | 6.86 | -3% | 2.3% |
Cambodia | 5.82 | 6.37 | 9% | 2.1% |
World | 272.06 | 297.85 | 9% | 100% |
China
China maintains its position as the leading knitted garment exporting country, with an export value of $90.94 billion in 2022. This marks a 5% increase from the previous year. China’s well-established textile industry, efficient production capabilities, and competitive pricing contribute to its dominance in this sector. It holds a significant share of 30.5% in global knitted garment exports.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh has emerged as a major player in the global textile market, specializing in knitted garments. With a remarkable growth rate of 21%, Bangladesh’s knitted garment exports reached $31.00 billion in 2022. The country’s low labor costs, favorable trade policies, and improving infrastructure have attracted international buyers, solidifying its position as a key exporter. Bangladesh holds a share of 10.4% in global knitted garment exports.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s textile industry has experienced rapid growth, securing the third spot on our list. With a remarkable increase of 36%, Vietnam exported knitted garments worth $21.47 billion in 2022. The country’s competitive production costs, skilled workforce, and preferential trade agreements have propelled its textile exports to new heights. Vietnam holds a share of 7.2% in global knitted garment exports.
Germany
Germany is renowned for its high-quality textile manufacturing, and its knitted garments are highly sought after globally. The country’s knitted garment exports remained stable at $13.34 billion in 2022, reflecting a 0% growth rate. Its reputation for precision engineering and adherence to strict quality standards contribute to its continued success. Germany holds a share of 4.5% in global knitted garment exports.
Italy
Italy’s fashion industry is renowned for its craftsmanship and creativity. With a growth rate of 10%, Italy exported knitted garments worth $12.37 billion in 2022. Italian knitted garments are synonymous with elegance and style, attracting fashion-conscious consumers worldwide. Italy holds a share of 4.2% in global knitted garment exports.
Turkey
Türkiye, a major textile exporter, secured the sixth position on our list. Despite a modest growth rate of 2%, Türkiye’s knitted garment exports amounted to $11.01 billion in 2022. The country’s strategic location, skilled labor force, and ability to offer a diverse range of products contribute to its success in the knitted garment export market. Türkiye holds a share of 3.7% in global knitted garment exports.
India
India, known for its rich textile heritage, has a strong presence in the global knitted garment export market. With a growth rate of 7%, India exported knitted garments worth $8.42 billion in 2022. The country’s vast pool of skilled artisans, competitive pricing, and diverse product range make it an attractive sourcing destination for international buyers. India holds a share of 2.8% in global knitted garment exports.
Spain
Spain’s textile industry has been steadily growing, reflecting its presence as an important knitted garment exporter. With a 3% growth rate, Spain’s knitted garment exports amounted to $6.98 billion in 2022. Spanish knitted garments are known for their quality, innovation, and modern designs, catering to the preferences of fashion-forward consumers. Spain holds a share of 2.3% in global knitted garment exports.
Netherlands
Despite a slight decline of 3% in its export figures, the Netherlands maintained its position as a significant knitted garment exporter. In 2022, the country exported knitted garments worth $6.86 billion. The Netherlands’ strategic location, well-developed logistics infrastructure, and expertise in trade contribute to its prominence in the global textile market. The Netherlands holds a share of 2.3% in global knitted garment exports.
Cambodia
Cambodia, with its competitive production costs and favorable trade agreements, has established itself as a prominent knitted garment exporter. With a growth rate of 9%, Cambodia’s knitted garment exports reached $6.37 billion in 2022. The country’s commitment to sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices further enhances its appeal to international buyers. Cambodia holds a share of 2.1% in global knitted garment exports.
Conclusion
The knitted garment export market is dynamic, with China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam leading the pack in terms of export values and global market share. These countries leverage their manufacturing capabilities, cost advantages, and favorable trade policies to dominate the industry. Germany, Italy, Türkiye, India, Spain, the Netherlands, and Cambodia also contribute significantly to the global knitted garment exports, showcasing their unique strengths and catering to diverse consumer preferences. As the demand for knitted garments continues to rise worldwide, these top 10 exporting countries are well-positioned to maintain their prominence and drive the industry’s growth.