Knitted Fabric Market

Knitted Fabric Market Size and Share:

The global knitted fabric market size was valued at USD 33.83 Billion in 2025. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 48.69 Billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.13% from 2026-2034. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of 45%. The market is expanding steadily, driven by rising demand for comfortable, versatile, and stylish textiles across apparel, lifestyle, and technical applications. Innovations in fibers, sustainable materials, and advanced knitting technologies are enhancing fabric performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Consumers increasingly prefer breathable, stretchable, and eco-friendly fabrics, while designers focus on creating diverse patterns and seamless constructions. These factors collectively strengthen market growth, shaping competitive dynamics and influencing the overall knitted fabric market share.

The increasing consumer demand for comfort, versatility, and style in garments among all demographics drives the knitted fabric market globally. Thus, incorporation of innovative knitting technologies such as seamless and 3D knitting enables manufacturers to produce high-quality fabrics with improved stretch, durability, and aesthetic appeal to cater to the changing preferences of today's consumers. In May 2025, GHCL Textiles announced a ₹1,000 crore investment to upgrade and expand its knitting capacity in Uttar Pradesh, enhancing production capabilities for high-quality knitted fabrics across India. In addition, the increased concentration on sustainable and ecological production techniques, such as organic fibers, recycled yarns, and low-impact dyeing methods, furthers the cause of market growth through appeals to environmentally conscious buyers. Integrating smart textiles and performance-enhancing fibers into activewear and athleisure also helps in its expansion, allowing for clothing to be multifunctional from casual wear to special sports attire. With increased access provided by expanding global trade networks and e-commerce platforms for freshly developed knitted fabrics, manufacturers are able to provide to a broader base, thus creating consistent demand to support the overall growth in the knitted fabric market outlook.

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The knitted fabric market in the United States with a share of 81% is driven by a strong fashion and garment sector that depends on comfort, performance, and adaptability. Consumers increasingly demand garments that marry functionality with style and hence result in the growth of value-added knitting techniques that turn out stretchable, breathable, and resilient fabrics. Activewear, athleisure, and loungewear are big hits for various end-users, leading to the demand for multi-functional knitted textiles that support movement, moisture management, and comfort. Sustainability acts as a significant driver wherein American buyers look forward to eco-friendly fabrics made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, and other low-impact materials; all this lines up with environmental consciousness. Such technological advancements in seamless knitting and smart textile integration have enabled producers to make high-performance fabrics to meet requirements such as thermal regulation or enhanced elasticity. A considerable domestic textile manufacturing base secures innovation and quick reaction to the latest fashion needs and means that the United States will maintain an impressive share in the knitted fabric market while meeting the changing expectations of consumers. In February 2025, Contempora Fabrics and America Knits form a strategic partnership to strengthen U.S. textile and apparel production, enhance the domestic supply chain, and meet rising demand for American-made, sustainable fabrics.

Knitted Fabric Market Trends:

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

The knitted fabric industry is increasingly embracing sustainability, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly fibers and responsible production methods. In August 2025, Everbloom launches its sustainable cashmere technology after seven years of development, producing fine natural cashmere at scale and piloting with several Italian mills, addressing environmental and quality concerns. Furthermore, innovations in biodegradable yarns, recycled textiles, and low-impact dyeing techniques are transforming traditional manufacturing processes, making them more environmentally conscious. Consumers are showing growing awareness of their ecological footprint and prefer fabrics produced through renewable, recyclable, and water- and energy-efficient methods. This trend encourages circular textile systems, where garments are repurposed, upcycled, or returned for recycling, extending the lifecycle of materials. Additionally, sustainable fabrics are being developed to combine durability, softness, and aesthetic appeal, allowing brands to meet both ethical and performance demands. Designers are exploring natural textures, organic fiber blends, and environmentally conscious finishes to appeal to a growing eco-conscious audience. Collectively, these initiatives are shaping knitted fabric market trends, promoting greener production while meeting evolving consumer expectations for style, comfort, and sustainability worldwide.

Integration of Smart and Functional Textiles

More and more, knitted fabrics are engineered to incorporate performance functionalities beyond basic comfort and aesthetics to meet the increasing demand for performance-based textiles. High-tech fabrics are now made with features that include moisture wicking, antibacterial properties, UV protection, and temperature regulation, among others, which makes them perfect for sportswear, activewear, and outdoor clothes. The integration of smart fibers and conductive yarns into garments helps with interaction, such as with wearable devices, monitoring biometric data, or supporting health and fitness applications. It is these developments that take knitted fabrics into healthcare, protective clothing, and high-performance levels. To achieve more durable, adaptable, and multi-functional fabrics for better wearer experience, there has been an incorporation of traditional knitting techniques with modern textile engineering. It is expected that this concentration on smart and functional attributes will continue to redefine consumer expectation, drive innovation, widen applications, increase adoption across different markets, and position the segment for further evolution in global knitted fabric trends.

Customization and Digital Design Innovation

The knitted fabric sector is experiencing a surge in customization and digital design innovation, transforming how textiles are conceptualized, produced, and delivered. Advanced computer-aided knitting and three-dimensional knitting technologies allow for the creation of intricate patterns, seamless garments, and complex textures with high precision. This facilitates on-demand production, enabling brands to offer personalized fabrics, tailored fits, and unique color combinations that meet specific consumer preferences. Virtual prototyping and simulation tools allow designers to test fabrics and patterns before manufacturing, reducing waste, accelerating development cycles, and fostering creativity. This trend supports collaborations between designers, brands, and manufacturers to develop limited-edition or market-specific offerings, enhancing exclusivity and appeal. By merging technological innovation with traditional knitting techniques, the industry is increasingly capable of delivering fabrics that are both aesthetically versatile and functionally superior. These advancements are significantly influencing knitted fabric market trends, driving adoption and shaping consumer experiences globally.

Knitted Fabric Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global knitted fabric market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2026-2034. The market has been categorized based on product and application.

Analysis by Product:

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• Weft-Knit
• Warp-Knit

The weft-knit segment has captured about 65% share in the knitted fabric market on account of its versatility and wide applications. Weft-knit fabrics provide excellent stretch, softness, and breathability, which makes them apt for casual wear, activewear, and functional garments. Their ability to retain shape while offering flexibility ensures comfort and performance, appealing to both consumers and manufacturers. Innovations in yarn blends by fusing natural and synthetic fibers enhance durability, texture, and aesthetic appeal. Advanced knitting technologies such as seamless and three-dimensional knitting pave the way for designing intricate designs, patterns, and exact fits while minimizing material waste. All these advantages are further enhanced with the integration of eco-friendly and sustainable fibers, meeting the current global trends of responsible production. Comfort, design flexibility, advancements in technology, and sustainability make weft-knit the most preferred choice in the global knitted fabric market.

Analysis by Application:

• Household Products
• Fashion and Clothing
• Industrial Applications

The largest proportion, 60% share of the knitted fabric market, belongs to fashion and clothing, which is consumer-driven for fashionable, comfortable, and versatile garments. Knitting fabrics are widely used in the making of garments due to their feel, elasticity, and adaptability that allow the manufacture of casual wear, athleisure, and high-performance garments. New fiber blends, fabric finishes, and advanced knitting techniques make garments durable, aesthetically appealing, and capable of retaining their shape. Intricate patterns, seamless construction, and customizable designs increase creativity and meet changing fashion trends. This segment also reflects the preference of consumers for comfort, performance, and sustainability in all-day wear. Activewear and leisurewear further create more options for knitted fabrics in functional and fashionable applications. All these factors ensure fashion and clothing as the largest application, with the global demand for it strengthening the knitted fabric market.

Regional Analysis:

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• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

The market for knitted fabric is dominated by the Asia-Pacific region, with a 45% share. The strong textile manufacturing infrastructure coupled with an abundance of skilled manpower and diverse raw material availability in the region drives such demand. This region caters to both domestic consumption and exports. The fabrics produced are used in apparel, home textiles, and technical textiles. Technological advancements in knitting machinery, seamless production, and new yarns improve productivity, precision in design, and quality of product. Increasing urbanization, coupled with demand for versatile, comfortable, and stylish fabrics as a result of changing lifestyle and increasing fashion consciousness, leads to growing consumer demand. Sustainable and ecological production processes is likewise considered in the region, hence responding to the global trend and consumer preference for ecologically responsible textiles. Further, expanding retail networks, digital technologies for production, and customization capabilities support the adoption of this market. These factors drive Asia-Pacific as the central hub for production, distribution, and innovation in knitted fabrics, reinforcing its leadership and shaping the development and growth graph of the global market.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The North American knitted fabric market growth is shaped by rising consumer preference for comfort, style, and performance in apparel. Knitted fabrics are widely used in activewear, casual clothing, and athleisure, reflecting lifestyle trends that prioritize flexibility and functionality. The region emphasizes innovation in fabric construction, integrating advanced knitting technologies to achieve seamless designs, intricate patterns, and enhanced garment durability. Sustainable fibers and eco-friendly production practices are gaining prominence, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Collaborations between designers and textile producers are fostering creative and diverse fabric offerings, while digital knitting and on-demand production techniques allow for customization and faster product development. These factors collectively support strong adoption across fashion, sportswear, and lifestyle applications. The combination of technological advancement, consumer focus on comfort, and sustainability initiatives positions North America as a key contributor to global market growth.

United States Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The United States knitted fabric market is driven by trends in lifestyles and fashion that demand versatility, comfort, and performance. Consumers increasingly favor garments that possess this combination of stretch, breathability, and durability, supporting the adoption of knitted fabrics in casual wear, activewear, and athleisure segments. Innovation in sustainable and high-performance fibers matches awareness of environmental responsibility and quality product consciousness. Advanced knitting technologies include seamless and three-dimensional knitting that enables precision designs, tailored fits, and reduced production waste. In addition, there is the integration of functional textiles offering moisture management, temperature regulation, and enhancement of garment longevity. Fashion houses and textile innovator collaboration fosters creativity and unique offerings in fabrics, meeting consumers' evolving preferences. Together, these developments will strengthen domestic production capabilities and fuel strong demand, making the United States a major contributor to the global knitted fabric landscape.

Asia Pacific Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

With the strong infrastructure of textile manufacturing, skilled labor, and availability of various raw materials in the region, Asia Pacific dominates the market for knitted fabrics. The region caters to both domestic consumption and exports to other global markets, producing a wide gamut of fabrics needed for apparel, home textiles, and technical applications. Advancements in knitting machinery and techniques ensure fast and high-quality production; besides, innovation in sustainable fibers and other eco-friendly practices has enabled appeal to be made to environmentally conscious consumers. This demand is further boosted by the rapidly rising fashion and lifestyle markets across major urban areas, seeking versatile, comfortable, stylish fabrics. This region also focuses on customization and digital design to create tailored fabrics for different markets. Combining manufacturing strength, cost competitiveness, and innovation, Asia Pacific sits as the global epicenter of knitted fabric production and distribution, influencing industry trends and shaping the future trajectory of the market.

Europe Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The European knitted fabric market emphasizes innovation, quality, and sustainability, driven by sophisticated consumer preferences and fashion-forward trends. Knitted fabrics are widely adopted across casual wear, formal clothing, and high-performance garments, with increasing integration of eco-friendly and recycled fibers. Advanced knitting technologies enable intricate patterns, seamless designs, and efficient production, supporting a balance of aesthetics and functionality. European consumers prioritize sustainable and ethically produced fabrics, encouraging manufacturers to adopt circular textile systems and low-impact processes. The market also benefits from strong collaborations between designers and textile producers, fostering creativity and unique fabric offerings. Combined with technological innovation and sustainability focus, these factors position Europe as a strategic region for knitted fabric development, influencing broader global industry standards and adoption patterns.

Latin America Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The Latin American knitted fabric market is driven by rising fashion consciousness, growing disposable income, and increasing adoption of casual and activewear. Knitted fabrics are valued for their comfort, stretchability, and versatility, making them suitable for lifestyle, sports, and leisure applications. Local production is supported by skilled labor and access to natural fibers, while technological upgrades in knitting machinery are enhancing fabric quality and efficiency. Consumers are showing greater awareness of sustainable and eco-friendly textiles, encouraging the adoption of recyclable and biodegradable materials. The market also benefits from digital knitting and customization capabilities, allowing brands to cater to diverse fashion preferences. These combined trends reinforce Latin America as a growing market for knitted fabrics, supporting both regional consumption and export potential, and contributing to the global industry landscape.

Middle East and Africa Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa knitted fabric market is expanding due to increasing demand for versatile, stylish, and comfortable textiles across apparel and lifestyle segments. Knitted fabrics are widely adopted in casual wear, traditional garments, and emerging activewear markets, reflecting evolving fashion trends. The region is witnessing investments in advanced knitting technologies, enabling higher precision, durability, and design flexibility. Consumers are increasingly aware of quality, sustainability, and functional features in fabrics, which encourages the use of eco-friendly fibers and efficient production processes. Collaborations between designers and textile producers are fostering innovative patterns, textures, and seamless constructions that meet diverse market needs. Combined with the growth of urban centers, rising disposable incomes, and expanding retail channels, these factors position the Middle East and Africa as a key emerging region for knitted fabric adoption, contributing to the global industry’s overall expansion.

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the knitted fabric market is characterized by innovation, product differentiation, and strategic expansion across regions and applications. Market participants focus on developing advanced fabrics with enhanced stretch, durability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal to meet evolving consumer demands. Investment in research and development drives innovation in sustainable fibers, functional textiles, and seamless knitting technologies, enabling manufacturers to offer unique and high-quality products. Strategic collaborations between designers and fabric producers further enhance the diversity of offerings, catering to fashion, activewear, and lifestyle segments. Regional expansion, modernization of manufacturing facilities, and adoption of digital knitting technologies are key strategies to optimize production efficiency and responsiveness to market trends. These initiatives collectively strengthen market positioning and foster growth opportunities. With continuous innovation, rising consumer demand, and adoption of sustainable practices, the global knitted fabric market is poised for steady growth, aligning with the projected knitted fabric market forecast.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the knitted fabric market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Abhinandan Knits Pvt. Ltd.
• Baltex
• Georg + Otto Friedrich GmbH
• Guilford (Lear Corporation)
• Haining Jinmao Warp Knitting Co. Ltd.
• Jong Stit Co. Ltd.
• Loyal Textile Mills Ltd.
• Pacific Textiles Holdings Limited
• SSM Industries Inc.
• Teejay Lanka PLC
• Toray Industries Inc.
• Zhejiang Chaoda Warp Knitting Co. Ltd.

Latest News and Developments:

• June 2025: Fashion for Good, in collaboration with Arvind Limited, launched Future Forward Factories in India, aspiring to revolutionize textile manufacturing by reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 93%, cultivating sustainable, innovative, and scalable production practices.
• July 2024: RSWM Limited launched its Autumn-Winter 2025–26 collection, highlighting sustainable yarns, melange, LNJ Knits, and denim fabrics. The range combines eco-friendly fibers with advanced textile technology, emphasizing comfort, performance, and modern design, reinforcing RSWM’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and high-quality solutions for the Indian and global textile markets.

Knitted Fabric Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the knitted fabric market from 2020-2034.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global knitted fabric market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the knitted fabric industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.