US apparel imports worth $79.3 bn in 2023; majority sourced from Asia

The report was requested by the US trade representative in a letter in December last year.

Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia and Pakistan are notable suppliers to the United States—ranking among the top 10 US import suppliers in apparel last year—and are also significant exporters in the global market. These five countries accounted for a combined 27 per cent of US apparel imports in 2023.

The market shares of major US apparel suppliers changed significantly during 2013-23. The share of imports from China, the largest exporter to the United States, fell during the period, while the shares of other top suppliers like Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia and Pakistan increased.

As the second-largest apparel exporter in the world, Bangladesh has extensive capabilities in apparel manufacturing and specialises in bulk orders of basic garments. Factors like low labour costs, relatively low input costs and duty-free access to large destination markets outside of the United States contribute to Bangladesh’s cost competitiveness, the report noted.

Foreign direct investment drives Cambodia’s export-oriented apparel industry with the country focused on cut, make and trim production using imports of upstream materials. Cambodia’s apparel industry is viewed as an attractive alternative to sourcing from China and its reputation for social responsibility contributes to its competitiveness, it said.

Quality and detailed finishing contribute to the competitiveness of India’s apparel production, which is supported by a highly vertically integrated apparel industry.

Though a relatively high-cost source, Indonesia produces high-value, complex garments like business attire, outdoor apparel and athletic wear and that contributes to its competitiveness, the report said.

Pakistan’s cotton sector supports the country’s apparel industry, which is noted for production of high-quality denim. Vertical integration and access to domestic cotton are competitive strengths, but buyers cite geopolitical risk as a concern.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)