Market Watch

Analysing the top importers of textile and apparel globally and East Africa's share of those imports

DATA SOURCE: COMTRADEPLUS.UN
Here’s a link to the HS codes and detailed breakdown of the information.

Overview

Market Watch dashboard above features multiple interactive tabs designed to equip you with a holistic view of the industry:

  • Import Powerhouses:ย Explore yearly import data (2012-2022) from major markets like the European Union, USA, and leading Asian nations. Identify the top suppliers fueling East Africa’s textile and apparel demand.
  • Market Share Analysis:ย Delve into East Africa’s market share within these key markets. Understand your competitive landscape and potential for growth.
  • East African Exports:ย Analyze yearly export figures for various textile categories like Apparel, Home Textiles, and more. Discover East Africa’s strengths and emerging export opportunities.

How to navigate the dashboard

  • Utilize tabs to switch between data sets effortlessly.
  • Hover over data points on charts and graphs for detailed information.
  • Downloadable reports allow you to share insights with your team.

Market Filters

  • Compare multiple country data by adding or removing from top right filter.

The Markets Being Watched

Top Importers Of Textile and Apparel Globally

USA ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ

Thriving Textile Imports Fuel Industry Growth

As one of the largest importers globally, the USA presents lucrative prospects for investors seeking stability and growth in the textile and apparel sector, supported by strong consumer demand and strategic trade relationships.

Top 5 Importers to USA market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Canada
  • Columbia

Germany ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช

Strategic Hub for Textile Trade in Europe

Positioned as a strategic hub within Europe, Germany offers investors access to a sophisticated market environment, characterized by high standards of quality and efficiency, ideal for sustainable growth and market expansion.

Top 5 Importers to German market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria

France ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท

Vibrant Textile Market with Promising Growth Potential

With a rich cultural heritage and strong consumer demand, France presents compelling opportunities for investors aiming to capitalize on a diverse range of textile and apparel products, supported by innovative trends and consumer preferences.

Top 5 Importers to French market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Belgium
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Bulgaria

Japan ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต

Resilient Textile Market Amidst Global Dynamics

Known for its technological prowess and consumer sophistication, Japan offers investors a stable platform for growth in the textile and apparel sector, characterized by quality craftsmanship and adaptive market strategies.

Top 5 Importers to Japan market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Bulgaria
  • Brazil

China ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ

Global Powerhouse in Textile Manufacturing

As a key player in supply chain dynamics, China provides investors with access to extensive manufacturing capabilities and a vast consumer market, driving transformative growth and innovation across the textile sector.

Top 5 Importers to Chinese market as at 2023:

  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Austria

Australia ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ

Sustainable Growth in Oceanic Textile Market

With a focus on environmental stewardship and consumer awareness, Australia presents investors with unique prospects in the textile and apparel industry, driven by innovation and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Top 5 Importers to Australian market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Canada

United Kingdom ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง

Dynamic Textile Market in a Global Setting

Positioned at the crossroads of global trade, the UK presents strategic advantages for investors seeking access to a diverse consumer base and innovative textile industry initiatives, driving sustainable growth and market competitiveness.

Top 5 Importers to English market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria

Italy ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

Leading European Hub for Textile Excellence

Renowned for its heritage of craftsmanship and design innovation, Italy offers investors unparalleled opportunities in the premium textile and apparel market, blending tradition with modernity to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Top 5 Importers to Italian market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia

Canada ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ

Emerging Opportunities in North American Textile Market

Positioned within North America’s dynamic trade landscape, Canada offers investors strategic advantages in market access and consumer engagement, fostering growth in the textile and apparel sectors through innovation and sustainable practices.

Top 5 Importers to Canadian market as at 2023:

  • China
  • Bangladesh
  • Cambodia
  • Belgium

Preferential Access

Preferential Access on Imports From East Africa

Country of OriginExport RegionPreferential Access
KenyaUSADuty Free under AGOA till 2025
European UnionExports from Kenya entering the European Union are entitled to duty reductions and freedom from all quota restrictions. Trade preferences include dutyfree entry of all industrial products. This is under the ACP/Cotonou Partnership Agreement.
United KingdomThe UK-Kenyan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) provides Kenyan businesses duty-free access to the UK market.
EACExports and imports within member countries (who are also part of COMESA) enjoy preferential tariff rates. EAC Member States have signed a Protocol to establish a common Customs Union. Ratified under AFCFTA74
UgandaUSADuty Free under AGOA till 2025
European UnionGSP
European UnionEverything But Arms : The (EBA) scheme removes tariffs and quotas for all imports of goods (except arms and ammunition), coming into the EU from least developed countries (LDCs).
EACExports and imports within member countries (who are also part of COMESA) enjoy preferential tariff rates. Ratified under AFCFTA74
TanzaniaUSADuty Free under AGOA till 2025
European UnionEverything But Arms : The (EBA) scheme removes tariffs and quotas for all imports of goods (except arms and ammunition), coming into the EU from least developed countries (LDCs).
Economic Partnership Agreement : EPA guarantees tariff-free access to EU markets
EACExports and imports within member countries (who are also part of SADC) enjoy preferential tariff rates. Ratified under AFCFTA74
RwandaEuropean UnionGSP : 20% tariff reduction.
USADuty Free under AGOA till 2025
EACFree Trade Agreement under COMESA. Ratified under AFCFTA
United KingdomDeveloping Countries Trading Scheme : The DCTS is a simpler and more generous preferential trading scheme which has been designed to boost trade with developing countries in order to support their development.