According to recent data from the General Administration of Customs, China's textile and apparel exports saw a significant increase. Clothing exports reached $1.338 billion, marking a 33.6% rise, while textile exports hit $8.24 billion, up 47.5%. This growth outperformed last year’s 23.6% increase, showing strong momentum in the sector. However, despite this positive data, there are underlying concerns about the long-term competitiveness of China’s textile industry.
Some may attribute this surge to the devaluation of the Vietnamese dong against the U.S. dollar, which has made Vietnamese goods more competitive. But is this just a temporary trend or a sign of deeper shifts? In my view, the depreciation of the Vietnamese currency is more than just a warning—it signals a growing challenge for China’s dominance in textile manufacturing.
At the end of last year, rising costs of raw materials like cotton and additives, along with soaring land prices and labor expenses, pushed many textile manufacturers to look elsewhere. The “Yangguang News†reported that Vietnam devalued its currency three times within 14 months, with a 9.3% drop against the dollar as of February this year. As a result, many orders shifted to Vietnam without hesitation. While China remains a major player in textile production, it seems to be losing ground at a critical moment.
It’s important to note that Vietnam is emerging as a new manufacturing hub. Its “population dividend†and low-cost processing trade have attracted foreign investment. But these are not our strengths anymore. We need to rethink: Are we focusing on innovation, technology, and intellectual property? Can we secure a place that others cannot easily replace?
In addition, the textile industry is facing a severe labor shortage, especially after the Spring Festival. Many migrant workers who once flooded into cities are now choosing different paths. Why? Because jobs in dyeing and finishing are often grueling—long hours, manual work, poor working conditions, and low pay. As a result, many graduates in textile-related fields are opting for other careers, making it difficult to fill positions. If we can’t attract workers, how long can we sustain production?
Moreover, environmental regulations are also playing a role. The dyeing and finishing industry has long been known for high pollution levels. Some factories used to evade sewage treatment costs by illegally discharging waste. But with stricter environmental policies, many have been forced to shut down or restructure. This adds to the pressure on the textile industry.
Beyond cost and environment, the quality and innovation of Chinese textiles must also improve. The global market is constantly evolving, with changing consumer preferences and demands. We need to stay ahead by investing in research, enhancing product functions, and developing advanced finishing technologies. Building a strong brand identity is key to standing out in a competitive market.
To remain resilient, the Chinese textile industry must focus on reducing energy consumption, streamlining processes, and upgrading the entire supply chain—from machinery to chemicals. These strategies will help the industry better respond to risks and maintain its position in the global market.
The alarm bell is ringing. Are we ready to face the future? It’s time to act, innovate, and adapt.
Twill Rayon Printed,Rayon Screen Printed,Rayon Printed,Rayon Fabrics
Shaoxing Shangda Textile Co., Ltd , https://www.shangdatex.com