A look at 2024–2025: performance review and trends in the textile industry

The 2024–2025 biennium marks a period of profound transformation for the global textile industry. Amid economic pressure, geopolitical challenges, and growing demand for sustainability, the most resilient companies—such as Fulgar—have focused on innovation, digitalization, and responsible production models, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

A two-year transformation for the textile industry

In 2024 and 2025, the textile sector underwent significant evolution, driven by technological innovation and an increasingly sustainability-focused regulatory framework. The European Union introduced key regulations establishing new standards for traceability, repairability, and recycled content, effectively turning sustainability into a strategic driver of competitiveness.

At the same time, the separate collection of textile waste became mandatory in 2025, promoting extended producer responsibility systems and circular economy models. Today, textiles represent one of the core sectors of the European economy, called upon to decarbonize processes, digitalize supply chains, and strengthen production resilience.

Market performance: production, materials and new consumer trends

In 2024 and 2025, the textile sector showed mixed dynamics but with positive prospects: the global textile market value increased from USD 618 billion in 2024 to USD 660 billion in 2025, with an average annual growth rate of 6.8%.

During this period, consumer preferences also shifted significantly, with a growing emphasis on sustainable, traceable and long-lasting textile products—particularly those made from recycled or bio-based fibers and supported by transparent supply chains.

In 2024, global textile fiber production reached 132 million tons, confirming a steady growth trend. Polyester maintained its leading position with approximately 78 million tons (59%), while polyamide (nylon) accounted for about 5% of the global market—around 7 million tons—up from 6.7 million tons in 2023.

Recycled polyamides still represent a relatively small share of total production (2.3%), but their growth is steady, supported by investments in chemical and mechanical recycling technologies. These processes make it possible to recover pre- and post-consumer materials—such as discarded textiles, spinning waste, carpets, and fishing nets—and transform them into new, high-quality fibers. By 2026, the goal is to exceed a 3% market share, supported by European extended producer responsibility policies.

At the same time, bio-based polyamides are playing an increasingly strategic role. Produced from renewable sources such as castor oil or industrial corn, they significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and water consumption compared to conventional versions, while offering excellent technical performance: lightness, strength, and flexibility. These properties make them ideal for fashion, sportswear, and technical apparel, confirming polyamide as a key material for the future of the industry.

Innovation and sustainability: the new drivers of the textile sector

The 2025 performance review of the textile industry highlights a growing convergence between sustainability and technological innovation. Digital traceability is becoming the new standard, with the increasing adoption of RFID systems, blockchain and integrated data platforms that ensure full supply chain transparency.

At the same time, research is increasingly focused on reducing carbon footprints through the use of alternative feedstocks, including recycled plastics, captured CO₂, biomass and industrial waste.

Bio-based polyamide, in particular, stands out as a strategic material for fashion, sports, and technical apparel. It combines high mechanical performance—strength, elasticity, and durability—with a reduced environmental footprint, supporting the transition toward low-emission production models.

Textile industry outlook for 2026 and beyond

After a two-year period marked by profound change, sustainability remains the common thread shaping the future evolution of the textile sector, influencing industrial decisions, investment strategies, and production models.

In the coming years, the industry will also be shaped by new industrial and geopolitical trends. Reshoring—the return of production closer to end markets—is gaining momentum in Europe and Asia, aiming to reduce import dependency, cut transportation-related emissions, and strengthen supply chain resilience.

At the same time, the growth of regional manufacturing and the adoption of carbon pricing policies by the European Union and several Asian countries will encourage companies to invest in low-emission technologies and more efficient production processes. These shifts will help redefine the global textile landscape, favoring more local, digital, and sustainable production models.

Looking ahead, the textile sector in 2025 shows positive signs of maturity and renewal. The global market is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 3–4% through 2028, driven by the expansion of regenerated materials and ESG policies. Key trends include increased use of regenerated and bio-based fibers, reduced energy and water consumption through efficient facilities, stronger European regulations, and the development of new CO₂ capture technologies to create near-zero-emission textile polymers.

The 2025 performance review of the textile industry therefore confirms a shift toward an increasingly circular, digital and traceable ecosystem, where bio-based and recycled polyamides emerge as symbols of sustainable progress and a renewed balance between innovation and responsibility.

Would you like to learn more about Fulgar’s sustainable solutions and innovations? Contact us to explore our projects and low-impact materials.