In the fast-paced world of fashion and manufacturing, global textile and apparel exports are pivotal to the supply chain. From mass-market production hubs to high-end textile innovators, countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas are shaping the way the world wears. Backed by the latest data from WorldPopulationReview and Fibre2Fashion, here’s an in-depth look at the top textile and apparel exporting countries in 2025—including their export values, industry strengths, and competitive edges.
Table of Contents
China – Approx. $303 Billion
China remains the undisputed leader in global textile and apparel exports. It accounts for nearly one-third of all textile-related exports worldwide, owing to:
- Massive production capacity
- Vertically integrated supply chains
- State-backed industrial policy and investment
- Efficient logistics and port infrastructure
Even as brands diversify sourcing due to rising labor costs and geopolitical tensions, China continues to lead in both raw textiles and finished garments, along with synthetic fabrics and technical textiles.
Bangladesh – Approx. $57.7 Billion
Bangladesh has solidified its position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter, thanks to:
- A cost-effective labor force
- Deep specialization in Ready-Made Garments (RMG)
- Green-certified factories and improving compliance
- Global sourcing partnerships with top fashion retailers
Brands seeking affordable yet compliant manufacturing have increasingly turned to Bangladesh for fast-fashion and basic garment needs.
Vietnam – Approx. $48.8 Billion
Vietnam’s rise in global apparel exports has been rapid and strategic. Key drivers include:
Robust Free Trade Agreements (CPTPP, EVFTA, RCEP)
- Growing textile infrastructure
- Quality production in knitwear and woven garments
- A favorable location in Southeast Asia
With many brands shifting orders away from China, Vietnam offers a reliable and scalable alternative, especially in mid-tier fashion.
India – Approx. $41–44 Billion
India remains a global textile powerhouse, with exports spanning cotton fabrics, home textiles, apparel, and technical fabrics. The country excels in:
- A rich legacy in natural fibers and handlooms
- Massive domestic textile mills
- Strong growth in man-made and blended fabrics
- Government incentives like the PLI scheme
While India’s garment exports are slightly behind Bangladesh and Vietnam, its textile sector dominates in fiber, yarn, and fabrics.
Turkey – Approx. $40 Billion
Turkey ranks among the top exporters due to its:
- High-quality production in denim, knits, and woven textiles
- Close proximity to European markets
- Speed-to-market advantage
- Integrated supply chains
European fashion houses rely on Turkey for fast turnaround, premium fabrics, and compliant sourcing.
Germany – Approx. $36.7 Billion
Germany leads in technical and industrial textiles. With a focus on engineering excellence, German exports include:
- Medical textiles
- Automotive and aerospace fabrics
- Non-wovens and high-performance materials
Germany is less active in fashion garments but strong in innovation-led sectors.
Italy – Approx. $36.7 Billion
Italy is globally celebrated for its exquisite textiles and exceptional craftsmanship in high-end fashion. Italian strengths include:
- High-end wool, silk, and linen fabrics
- Tailored apparel exports
- Fashion-forward design and textile finishing
Italian textiles power many premium brands globally and are synonymous with quality and tradition.
United States – Approx. $29.8 Billion
While the U.S. is a major importer, it also exports a large volume of:
- Technical textiles
- Defense and aerospace fabrics
- Industrial non-wovens and protective wear
The U.S. leads in high-value categories and functional textiles rather than everyday fashion.
Pakistan – Approx. $22.1 Billion
Pakistan’s textile exports are heavily cotton-centric and include:
- Yarn and fabric
- Denim and knit garments
- Towel and home textiles
As one of the world’s largest cotton producers, Pakistan has invested in vertical integration and eco-friendly practices to improve its global appeal.
Spain – Approx. $20.3 Billion
Spain rounds out the top 10, with a solid export base in:
- Woven apparel
- Functional sportswear
- Mid-range fashion for EU markets
Spanish exporters benefit from strong EU logistics and a growing presence in sustainable fashion.
Key Takeaways
- China continues to dominate—but sourcing diversification is real.
- Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India are locked in intense competition, each emerging as a dominant force in the global apparel export landscape.
- Technical textiles are rising, with Germany, USA, and Italy carving niche markets.
- Sustainability, trade agreements, and speed-to-market are shaping global sourcing decisions.
- Countries like Turkey and Pakistan are balancing volume with value-added production.
Trends to Watch in 2025
- New U.S. tariffs on several countries could trigger another shift in global supply chains.
- Brands demand traceability and green compliance, influencing sourcing decisions globally.
Final Thoughts
The global textile and apparel export landscape is evolving with a clear divide between mass-market producers, value-driven innovators, and niche technical exporters. Whether it’s a fast-fashion t-shirt or a high-tech fire-resistant fabric, these top 10 countries are steering the fashion world forward in 2025 and beyond.
