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Fabrics made of man-made fibres may outstrip cotton demand globally

11 Jul '23

2 min read

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Synthetic fabrics will outpace cotton due to factors like population growth, sustainability awareness, and superior qualities of synthetics, as per an analysis by Fibre2Fashion.
Current global fabric exports show synthetic materials exceeding cotton.
By 2027, the synthetic fabric market could reach $87 billion, driven largely by Asia, especially China.

Synthetic fabrics made from man-made fibres, such as polyester and plant-based cellulose, are expected to surpass the demand for cotton fabrics within the coming decades, as per a recent market analysis conducted by Fibre2Fashion. The factors influencing this paradigm shift range from population growth, limited cotton production, and rising cotton prices to industrial applications and growing consumer awareness of sustainability.

Noteworthy characteristics of man-made fibres, like their abundant availability, durability, affordability, superior mechanical performance, and higher stability compared to natural fibres, make them an appealing choice in the textile industry.

The global fabric export currently stands divided with cotton comprising about 26 per cent and synthetic fabrics such as polyester and man-made cellulosic fabric, accounting for around 57 per cent, as per the study. This indicates a significant shift from the scenario in 2003 when cotton accounted for about 38 per cent while synthetic fabrics represented around 42 per cent of the market share. This persistent decline in global demand for cotton fabric is an indicator of the growing preference for synthetic alternatives.

Asia, as the undisputed hub of fabric production, is home to a majority of the world's manufacturing capacity. In particular, China has secured its position as the leading global exporter of plant-based cellulosic fabrics.

The analysis predicts a robust increase in the export of synthetic fabrics, forecasting a compound annual growth rate of 3 per cent over the next five years. By 2027, the global market for synthetic fabrics is projected to reach a significant value of $87 billion, primarily propelled by the surging demand for plant-based cellulosic fabrics. With the global export value estimated at $75 billion in 2022, Asia's pivotal role in this growth story is undeniable.

Over the last two decades, consumption of fabrics made from man-made fibres has exhibited a steady annual growth rate of approximately 5 per cent on a global scale. This consistent growth has led synthetic fabrics to now command over half of the total global fabric market.

The shift towards man-made fibres seems to be an enduring trend, with Asia poised to fulfil the world's increasing textile needs. Given the continuous advancements in man-made cellulosic fabrics and Asia's unparalleled manufacturing capabilities, the future of the global synthetic fabric market appears promising, according to the study.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (MI - WE)

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