Knitted Fabric Market

Knitted Fabric Market 2024, Size And Trends:

The global knitted fabric market size reached USD 32.4 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 49.1 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during 2025-2033. The market is experiencing growth due to increased demand in fashion, sports, and healthcare industries, driven by enhanced comfort, flexibility, and breathability of these fabrics. Additionally, innovative knitting technologies and sustainable production methods are influencing the knitted fabric market growth.

Knitted fabric is a textile produced by interlocking yarn loops, offering unique properties. Its primary benefits include flexibility, elasticity, breathability, and efficient production. These qualities facilitate moisture absorption and conformability, providing superior comfort and fit. Predominantly, it is employed in apparel manufacturing due to its adaptability and comfort. Other sectors include home furnishings, utilizing it for blankets and upholstery, healthcare for bandages and supportive garments, and the automotive industry for components like seat covers and airbags.

The market is primarily driven by the rising popularity of casual and sportswear, which extensively use knitted fabrics. Their breathability, elasticity, and moisture absorption properties make them ideal for this sector. In addition to this, the surge in home furnishing demands, where knitted fabric is used for blankets, bed sheets, and upholstery, is contributing significantly to the market's expansion. The healthcare sector's utilization of knitted fabrics in products such as bandages and support garments is acting as a key growth driver. Besides this, the automotive industry's application of knitted fabrics in seat covers and airbags is fueling the market growth. Other factors, such as the increasing population and growing middle-class demographics are creating a positive outlook for the market further across the globe.

Knitted Fabric Market Trends/Drivers:

Rising Demand from the Apparel Sector

The increasing product demand within the apparel sector is leading the market toward growth. This can primarily be attributed particularly to the growing popularity of casual and sportswear worldwide. This trend is largely attributable to shifts in societal norms, lifestyle changes, and the rise of athleisure fashion, which blends comfort with style. Knitted fabrics, with their inherent properties of flexibility, elasticity, and breathability, are ideally suited for the production of casual wear and athletic garments. Its ability to conform to body movements while providing excellent comfort levels is particularly appealing to consumers.

Enhanced Focus on Sustainability

Another significant knitted fabric market trends are the growing focus on sustainability. Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly attentive to the environmental impact of textiles. Knitted fabrics, which can be produced with less waste and energy than woven fabrics, are therefore appealing to the environmentally conscious consumers. There is also a rising inclination toward the adoption of more sustainable and ethical production practices. This includes the use of organic and recycled fibers, and fair-trade and transparent supply chains.

Advent of Smart Textiles

Knitted fabrics are being engineered with features like temperature regulation, moisture management, and even embedded electronics for wearable technology applications. In the healthcare sector, for instance, smart fabrics are being utilized to monitor patients' vitals remotely, enabling efficient, non-invasive healthcare provision. The athletic apparel industry has also embraced smart textiles, with garments designed to monitor performance metrics and provide real-time feedback. This rising demand for multifunctionality, coupled with ongoing advancements in textile technology, positions smart textiles as a critical factor propelling the growth of global knitted fabric market. The integration of intelligent functionalities into knitted fabrics is transforming the textile landscape and creating vast opportunities for innovation and growth in the sector.

Knitted Fabric Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global knitted fabric market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product and application.

Breakup by Product:

• Weft-Knit
• Warp-Knit

Weft-knit represents the largest market segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes weft-knit and warp-knit. According to the report, weft-knit represented the largest segment.

Weft-knitted fabrics, created with a single yarn that runs back and forth to form horizontal rows, are distinguished by their unique features: elasticity, flexibility, and breathability. These attributes lend themselves well to a multitude of uses in various industries, from apparel and fashion to medical and automotive applications. Furthermore, advancements in manufacturing technology have contributed to the dominance of weft-knit fabrics. Modern automated knitting machines can produce these fabrics rapidly and efficiently, meeting high-volume demands. This efficiency not only helps manufacturers keep up with the large-scale requirements of industries but also allows for cost-effective production. Another key driver is the growing focus on sustainability within the textile industry. Weft-knit fabrics, due to their production process, generate less waste compared to their counterparts, appealing to the increasing consumer and corporate attention towards eco-friendly products. Besides this, the versatility of weft-knit fabrics facilitates their use in innovative applications, such as smart textiles, which integrate technology for enhanced functionality.

Breakup by Application:

• Household Products
• Fashion and Clothing
• Industrial Applications

Fashion and clothing account for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application. This includes household products, fashion and clothing, and industrial applications. According to the report, fashion and clothing represented the largest segment.

The favorable properties of knitted fabric make it a preferred material in the clothing industry. They offer a good fit and are adept at conforming to body shapes and movements. These characteristics are especially advantageous in the production of casual wear, sportswear, and undergarments, which demand both comfort and flexibility. Additionally, societal shifts toward more casual dressing, facilitated by evolving workplace norms and the rise of remote working, have spurred increased demand for casual and comfortable clothing. This trend has further facilitated the role of knitted fabrics in the clothing sector. The emergence of smart textiles in the fashion industry is another significant driver. Knitted fabrics lend themselves well to this innovation, accommodating the integration of digital components and technologies to add different functionalities.

Breakup by Region:

• 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

Asia Pacific exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest knitted fabric market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. 

The Asia Pacific region boasts a significant population base, providing a substantial consumer market for apparel and home furnishings made with knitted fabrics. Rapid urbanization and the growing middle class, particularly in countries, such as China and India, have led to increased disposable income and purchasing power. This shift has spurred the demand for higher quality and more diverse clothing and home decor items, significantly contributing to the growth of the market. Moreover, the region has a well-established textile industry with a robust infrastructure for both production and export. Countries such as China, India, and Bangladesh are among the world's top textile producers and exporters, and their strong industry network supports efficient production and distribution of knitted fabrics. Additionally, labor costs in these countries tend to be lower than in other regions, which helps maintain competitive pricing.

Key Regional Takeaways:
 

United States Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The United States knitted fabric industry is growing steadily as demand increases from the fashion, sports apparel, and medical textiles industries. Improvements in knitting technology and fabric design have made it possible to achieve more innovation in products, such as moisture-wicking, stretchy, and antimicrobial fabrics. Growing consumer demand for comfort clothing, including athleisure and casual apparel, also drives market growth. Local producers are aided by robust retail infrastructure and e-commerce penetration, enabling fast response to fashion. Additionally, green trends are driving the adoption of organic cotton and recycled materials in knitted fabric. The threats are volatile raw material prices and foreign competition, especially from low-cost Asian manufacturers. Nonetheless, a concentration on localized production and customization is assisting American producers in staying competitive. Regulatory encouragement for environmental-friendly practices and developments in digital printing and seamless knitting are expected to provide new opportunities for growth. In all, the U.S. market for knitted fabrics is set to grow steadily, with innovation and sustainability at its foundation.

Europe Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

Europe's knitted textile industry is mature but dynamic, driven by robust demand for sustainable and high-performance fabric. Germany's, Italy's, and France's technical textile innovation leadership produces niche knitted textiles for the automotive, medical, and activewear markets. The region's focus on circular economy principles has spurred the adoption of recycled fibers and sustainable production methods. Fashion-conscious customer trends, along with the growing need for comfortable and functional apparel, contribute to market growth. European producers also invest in automation and digitalization to enhance production efficiency and minimize environmental footprint. With increased production expenses, the market sustains competitiveness based on quality, innovation, and high regulatory standards. Supply chain resilience and local sourcing trends also add stability to the market.

Asia Pacific Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

Asia Pacific leads the world in the market for knitted fabric based on the region's large textile-producing industry, particularly in China, India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. The region has an abundance of raw materials available, low labor costs, and high-tech production facilities, which transform it into a world export base. Growth in domestic consumption fueled by a larger middle class, fast urbanization, and rising fashion awareness is propelling demand. Governments in nations such as India and China also favor the industry with subsidies and supportive policies. Though environmental issues create regulatory problems, investments in greener methods of practices and intelligent textile innovations are on the rise throughout the region.

Latin America Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The Latin American knitted fabric market is growing steadily, driven by expanding textile industries in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Demand is supported by increasing urbanization, changing fashion trends, and the growing popularity of casual and sportswear. Regional trade agreements and proximity to the U.S. offer export opportunities. However, challenges such as economic instability and limited technological advancement exist. Nonetheless, ongoing investments in local production and rising interest in sustainable textiles are gradually transforming the market landscape.

Middle East and Africa Knitted Fabric Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa knitted fabric market is gradually expanding, primarily supported by increasing demand for modest fashion, activewear, and technical textiles. Growth is most notable in countries like Turkey, South Africa, and the UAE. Rising investments in local textile manufacturing and regional diversification efforts are fostering market development. While the market faces infrastructure and supply chain limitations, initiatives to modernize production and adopt sustainable practices are expected to enhance competitiveness in the coming years.

Competitive Landscape:

Key players in the market are focusing on several strategic actions to enhance their market position and respond to emerging trends. Foremost among these is investing in research and development to introduce innovative fabrics with enhanced properties, such as moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and UV-protective capabilities. As sustainability becomes a pressing concern, many manufacturers are shifting towards eco-friendly materials and practices, including the use of recycled or organic fibers and reducing water usage in production processes. Additionally, companies are expanding their production capacities and strengthening their supply chains to cater to the growing global demand. Collaborations and partnerships with fashion brands and sports apparel companies are also common, allowing these players to develop customized solutions and tap into new market segments. Some manufacturers are also exploring online sales channels to reach a broader customer base and enhance their market visibility.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• 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:

• In August 2024, Heathcoat Fabrics launched innovative graphene-coated knitted fabrics offering advanced thermal regulation and heat dissipation—boosting cooling rates by up to 60%. These fine-gauge knits also provide anti-static and antibacterial benefits, making them ideal for sportswear, medical, PPE, and military applications. The lightweight graphene technology enhances durability, breathability, and comfort, with various print patterns available to suit multiple high-performance textile needs.
• In July 2024, RSWM Limited, a key player in India’s textile industry, unveiled its Autumn-Winter 2025-26 collection across its Greige Yarns, Melantra, LNJ Knits, and LNJ Denim divisions. Emphasizing sustainability, the collection features natural fibers like flax, hemp, and banana blended with cotton and recycled materials. With themes like “Soul” and “Color of Peace,” RSWM highlights eco-conscious innovation, stylish design, and versatile applications for modern, sustainable fashion.

Knitted Fabric Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global knitted fabric market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global knitted fabric market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global knitted fabric market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive knitted fabric market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the product?
• Which is the most attractive product in the knitted fabric market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the application?
• Which is the most attractive application in the knitted fabric market?
• What is the competitive structure of the global knitted fabric market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global knitted fabric market?

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 2019-2033.
• 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.