Shaoxing textile and apparel exports in the first eight months of the US$9.06 billion

According to data released by Shaoxing Customs, the export value of textile and apparel products from Shaoxing has shown a steady upward trend since April this year, with four consecutive months of growth. By July, exports reached their highest level since January 2009. However, in August, there was a sharp decline, with total exports amounting to $1.34 billion—a drop of 8.6% compared to July.

From January to August this year, Shaoxing’s textile and apparel exports totaled $9.06 billion, marking a 35.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Specifically, textile exports reached $6.7 billion, up 38.2%, while clothing and accessories exports hit $2.36 billion, rising by 29.3%. The main export markets remain the European Union, the United States, and ASEAN countries. Notably, general trade exports have grown significantly faster than processing trade exports, indicating a shift in the industry's direction.

The strong performance in textile and apparel exports is largely due to a rebound in external demand. July typically marks the peak of the annual export cycle, so seasonal factors played a key role in the drop seen in August. In addition, Shaoxing Customs analysts highlighted that the sharp decline in export value compared to the previous month was also influenced by rising raw material costs. Moreover, increased competition from neighboring countries and ongoing trade protectionist policies have led to a loss of recent orders.

To mitigate risks, Shaoxing Customs advises businesses to closely monitor trade warning information issued by relevant authorities. It is also essential to accelerate industrial integration and innovation, driving the transformation and upgrading of both the textile and clothing industries and individual enterprises. Companies are encouraged to adopt a more proactive international strategy, expand their presence in emerging markets, and build stronger marketing networks to enhance profitability and long-term competitiveness.