World textile and apparel trade and production trends, March-April 2003

published in Issue 104, March-April 2003   Report price: Euro 600.00; US$ 785.00

US textile and apparel output fell in 2002 as imports surged and exports remained weak. But industry debt has been easing and profits are recovering. In Argentina the collapse of the economy continued to plague the industry. It also hit Brazil, and exporters are turning to the USA, Mexico and Chile for growth. In Colombia civil strife continues to affect exports. Mexican clothing exporters face tougher competition from China and other Asian suppliers in the US market.

EU output fell in 2002 in spite of some export successes, notably in Turkey and Mexico. Clothing output fell sharply as retail sales growth slowed and imports rose, especially from China and Pakistan. Import prices continued to fall. Imports from Eastern Europe were subdued although supplies from Romania and Slovakia remained strong. In Eastern Europe the industries were hit by stronger currencies and weak demand in the West. Many have been cutting back on employee numbers as Asian countries pose competition at the lower end of the market. 2002 was a better year for South Africa as the economy remained strong and exporters took advantage of trade agreements. But the sharp appreciation of the rand is causing concern.

In Japan the industry?s fall is levelling off. Exports remained weak in 2002 but there was a sharp rise in denim exports, especially to the USA. In China output growth was strong as domestic sales were buoyant and exports were boosted by quota removal following WTO entry. Hong Kong?s garment exports to most markets were down but sales to Mexico were buoyant. South Korea?s decline looks to be easing but imports are hitting domestic sales. Taiwan?s fabric makers report strong order books but spinners are relocating to Vietnam. Thailand?s economy picked up in 2002 and exports to China were up sharply. But quotas are set to curb Vietnam?s soaring exports to the USA. Indonesian exports were hit by the attacks on Bali and higher costs are eroding industry profits. Indian textiles fared better than clothing after a poor year in 2001. In Pakistan trade concessions have boosted output, exports and investment. Sri Lanka?s exports are recovering from their downturn and some major foreign buyers plan to source more from the country. But Bangladesh faces competition in its main markets as quotas restricting competitors are liberalised.

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