
Study Period | 2020 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Historical Data Period | 2020 - 2023 |
CAGR | 4.00 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Africa Textile Market Analysis
The Africa Textile Market is expected to register a CAGR of greater than 4% during the forecast period.
Africa's textile industry has emerged as a significant contributor to the continent's economic development, with Cotton Made in Africa alone employing approximately 450,000 workers in the cotton textile sector. The industry's transformation is marked by increasing investments in modern manufacturing facilities and sustainable textile practices, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, which has set an ambitious target of USD 30 billion in textile, apparel, and accessories exports by 2030. This strategic development is supported by the establishment of specialized industrial parks and a comprehensive push toward full industrialization, demonstrating the continent's commitment to becoming a global textile manufacturing hub.
The sector is witnessing a remarkable shift toward sustainable textile and eco-friendly practices, with initiatives like Cotton Made in Africa leading the charge in promoting environmentally conscious production methods. In January 2024, Dibella significantly increased its adoption of Cotton Made in Africa, expanding usage from 300,000 kg in 2023 to 750,000 kg in 2024, highlighting the growing emphasis on sustainable sourcing practices. The industry's focus on sustainability extends beyond environmental considerations to encompass social responsibility, with many manufacturers implementing fair labor practices and community development programs.
Kenya's textile sector exemplifies the industry's growing export capabilities, generating over USD 500 million annually from textile and apparel exports, which constitute nearly 30% of the country's industrial export growth. The nation's robust manufacturing infrastructure, supported by export processing zones and special economic zones, has attracted significant investment in modern production facilities. With an annual fabric consumption of approximately 100 million meters, Kenya's market demonstrates the substantial domestic demand that complements its export-oriented production.
The industry's evolution is further characterized by strategic international collaborations and technological advancement. In April 2024, Better Cotton formed a partnership with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and FIFA to enhance the cotton-to-textile value chain in West and Central Africa, backed by the African Export-Import Bank. This collaboration aims to strengthen supply chains and promote sustainable textile practices, particularly in Mali and Côte d'Ivoire. The industry's modernization efforts are also evident in the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and the development of specialized industrial textile parks, positioning Africa as an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Africa Textile Market Trends
Government Support and Trade Agreements
The African textile market is significantly driven by supportive government policies and international trade agreements, particularly the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Through AGOA, eligible African nations like Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe enjoy duty-free access to the U.S. market, providing them with a competitive advantage over non-eligible countries, especially Asian competitors. This advantage has been particularly impactful in products such as infant wear, grey fabrics, spun cotton yarn, wool, and ginned cotton. The implementation of these trade benefits has led to substantial growth, with countries like Lesotho achieving textile exports worth USD 1.2 billion, while Egypt's exports reached USD 1.1 billion.
The commitment of African governments to developing their textile sectors is exemplified by various initiatives and investments. For instance, Kenya's Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry has actively called upon manufacturers to boost synthetic fabric production for the nation's textile and apparel subsector. Additionally, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has allocated USD 72 million to enhance Lesotho's wool and mohair sector, aiming to improve the lives of 225,000 small-scale producers over a seven-year period. These government-backed initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to developing the continent's textile infrastructure and capabilities.
Growing International Recognition and Fashion Integration
The African fashion textile market is experiencing substantial growth driven by increasing global recognition of African designs and patterns in the international fashion industry. Leading fashion houses are increasingly incorporating African influences into their collections, recognizing the unique appeal and cultural significance of African textiles. This trend has led to a rising demand for traditional African fabrics like Kente cloth, Adire, and Bokolonfini, which are being reimagined for contemporary markets while maintaining their cultural authenticity. The integration of African designs into global fashion has created new opportunities for local artisans and manufacturers, contributing to the sector's expansion.
The market is further strengthened by innovative approaches to textile design and production. For instance, designers like Bubu Ogisi are gaining international recognition for their work in transforming traditional materials and techniques into contemporary fashion pieces. Through projects like "SYNTHETIC DREAMS," showcased at the Cape Town Investec Art Fair in March 2024, African designers are demonstrating their ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. This fusion of traditional and contemporary approaches has attracted attention from international buyers and fashion houses, creating new export opportunities and elevating the global status of African textiles.
Foreign Investment and Infrastructure Development
The African textile market is experiencing significant growth driven by substantial foreign investments, particularly from Chinese manufacturers seeking new production bases. In 2024, Chinese textile companies are actively expanding their sourcing and investment plans in African nations, particularly in Ethiopia, attracted by the country's improving infrastructure, including enhanced road networks, railway systems, and electricity supply. This strategic shift is further accelerated by the current trade tensions between the United States and China, prompting Chinese firms to establish manufacturing facilities in Africa as an alternative production base.
The market is also benefiting from significant infrastructure investments across the continent. For instance, Dibella has substantially increased its adoption of Cotton made in Africa, raising its usage from 300,000 kg in 2023 to 750,000 kg in 2024, demonstrating growing international confidence in African textile production capabilities. Additionally, major investments in textile manufacturing facilities, such as FullCare Medical's USD 30 million investment in a medical garment production facility in Tatu City, Kenya, announced in April 2024, are creating new opportunities for sector growth. These investments are accompanied by technology transfers and skill development programs, enhancing the continent's manufacturing capabilities and global competitiveness.
Sustainable and Traditional Textile Production
The African textile market is increasingly driven by a growing focus on sustainable textile production methods and the preservation of traditional textile craftsmanship. Initiatives like Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA) are leading the charge in promoting environmentally conscious cotton cultivation, with CmiA-certified cotton producing up to 13% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to the global average. The program's success is evident in its expansion, with Benin contributing approximately 1,000 tons and Tanzania leading with 9,000 tons of organic cotton production annually, demonstrating the continent's commitment to sustainable textile production.
The market is further strengthened by the integration of traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainable practices. For instance, the establishment of the 'Innovations Club' by Cotton Made in Africa and the African Cotton Foundation in Ivory Coast during 2023 exemplifies this trend, focusing on identifying and promoting effective practices for revitalizing African smallholder farming ecosystems. Additionally, initiatives like the Bank's Investment Promotion Support Project in Madagascar, which channels approximately USD 10 million into the textile sector, with USD 2 million specifically allocated to the Textile Sector Promotion Support Fund, are helping preserve traditional textile-making methods while promoting sustainable production practices.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Clothing Segment in Africa Textile Market
The clothing segment has emerged as both the largest and fastest-growing segment in the Africa textile market, commanding approximately 60% of the market share in 2024. This dominance is driven by several factors, including the continent's growing population, increasing urbanization, and rising disposable incomes. The segment's strength is particularly evident in countries like Ethiopia, which aims for USD 30 billion in textile, apparel textile, and accessories exports by 2030. The development of industrial parks across Africa has significantly boosted textile production efficiency, while initiatives like Cotton Made in Africa have enhanced the quality and sustainability of cotton textile production. Furthermore, the segment benefits from preferential trade agreements such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides duty-free access to the U.S. market, making African textile exports more competitive globally.

Industrial/Technical Applications in Africa Textile Market
The industrial/technical applications segment represents a significant portion of the Africa textile market, showcasing robust development and innovation. This segment has witnessed substantial growth due to increasing demand in sectors such as aeronautics, automotive, and protective clothing. Companies like Gelvenor Textiles have been pioneering the development of technical textile, particularly in areas such as ballistic protection, medical fabrics, and fire-retardant materials. The segment has also benefited from technological advancements in fabric engineering, with manufacturers incorporating features like antimicrobial properties, enhanced durability, and specialized coatings. The rise in infrastructure development across Africa has further boosted the demand for industrial textile, particularly in construction and geotextile applications.
Remaining Segments in Application Market
The household applications segment continues to play a vital role in the African textile market, offering a diverse range of products from bedding and bath linens to curtains and decorative accessories. This segment has been particularly responsive to changing consumer preferences, with manufacturers incorporating both traditional African designs and contemporary styles. The segment has benefited from the growing hospitality sector across Africa, which demands high-quality home textile products. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms has made household textiles more accessible to consumers, while increasing urbanization and a growing middle class have driven demand for premium home textile products.
Segment Analysis: By Material Type
Cotton Segment in Africa Textile Market
The cotton segment continues to dominate the Africa textile market, commanding approximately 45% market share in 2024, valued at USD 16.96 billion. Cotton's prominence in Africa is deeply rooted in the continent's agricultural heritage, with smallholder farmers being the primary cultivators. The segment's strength lies in its versatile applications across various textile products, from clothing to household items. African cotton is particularly valued for its high quality, characterized by long fibers that are meticulously handpicked to ensure premium grade. The continent's climate, marked by high average temperatures and alternating dry and wet seasons, provides ideal conditions for cotton textile cultivation, supporting its market leadership. Initiatives like Cotton Made in Africa have further strengthened this segment by offering training programs to farmers, emphasizing modern, eco-friendly cultivation techniques that enhance both yields and fiber quality.
Synthetic Segment in Africa Textile Market
The synthetic textile segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth trajectory in the Africa textile market, with an anticipated CAGR of approximately 5% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for technical textile and the versatility of synthetic textile materials in various applications. Kenya's Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry has been actively calling upon manufacturers to boost synthetic textile fabric production, recognizing its crucial role in both local consumption and exports. The segment's growth is further supported by the establishment of export processing zones (EPZs) offering preferential tax treatments to manufacturers. The rising adoption of synthetic textile materials in fashion, sportswear, and technical applications, coupled with their cost-effectiveness and durability, continues to fuel this segment's expansion across the continent.
Remaining Segments in Material Type
The other material segments in the African textile market, including jute, silk, wool, and other specialty fibers, each contribute uniquely to the market's diversity. Jute has gained prominence in eco-friendly applications, particularly in shopping bags and decorative items. The silk segment maintains its position in premium traditional garments and ceremonial wear, especially in regions with rich cultural heritage. Wool, despite its smaller market share, remains crucial in specific applications and traditional textiles. These segments collectively enhance the market's versatility, catering to diverse consumer preferences and specialized industrial applications while contributing to the overall sustainability of Africa's textile industry.
Segment Analysis: By Process
Woven Segment in Africa Textile Market
The woven textile segment continues to dominate the Africa textile market, commanding approximately 70% of the total market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is attributed to the segment's versatility and widespread application across various textile applications, from traditional African fabrics to modern industrial textiles. The segment's strength is particularly evident in countries like South Africa, where brands like African Jacquard and Mungo have established themselves as premium providers of woven textile. These companies have successfully combined traditional weaving techniques with modern technology to create high-quality products that cater to both domestic and international markets. The segment's robust performance is further supported by significant investments in weaving infrastructure across the continent, with many textile manufacturers upgrading their facilities with advanced weaving machinery to meet the growing demand for quality woven textile.
Non-woven Segment in Africa Textile Market
The nonwoven textile segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Africa textile market, projected to grow at approximately 5% from 2024 to 2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand in sectors like healthcare, hygiene, construction, and automotive industries across the Middle East and Africa region. The segment's expansion is supported by companies like Dilo Group, which are providing cutting-edge technology and production lines specifically designed for nonwoven textile manufacturing. European nations are actively supporting this growth through export credit guarantees and other financial mechanisms, fostering investments in the sector. The segment is witnessing particular momentum in Kenya, where the government is actively calling upon manufacturers to boost nonwoven textile fabric production for both local consumption and exports. This growth trajectory is further enhanced by the increasing adoption of sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials in nonwoven textile production.
Africa Textile Industry Overview
Top Companies in Africa Textile Market
The African textile landscape is characterized by a mix of established manufacturers and emerging players demonstrating strong innovation capabilities across the value chain. Companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable textile manufacturing practices and digitalization of operations to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Strategic partnerships with international brands and retailers have become a key avenue for market expansion, while investments in advanced manufacturing technologies are driving product quality improvements. Local players are leveraging traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage to create unique value propositions, while simultaneously adopting modern production techniques. The industry is witnessing a shift towards vertical integration, with companies expanding their operations from raw material processing to finished products. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on developing direct-to-consumer channels and strengthening e-commerce capabilities to reach broader markets.
Fragmented Market with Strong Regional Players
The African textile market exhibits a fragmented structure with varying levels of concentration across different regions and countries. While some areas, particularly those with well-established industrial textile industries and robust manufacturing sectors, show higher market concentration, others remain highly fragmented with numerous smaller-scale producers. The market is characterized by a mix of domestic players with strong local market knowledge and international companies bringing advanced technologies and global best practices. The presence of both traditional artisanal producers and modern industrial manufacturers creates a unique competitive dynamic, with each segment serving distinct market needs and consumer preferences. The industry structure is further influenced by regional trade agreements and government policies promoting local manufacturing and value addition.
The market has been witnessing increased merger and acquisition activities, particularly in key textile manufacturing hubs. International companies are showing growing interest in establishing partnerships with local manufacturers to leverage their market knowledge and distribution networks. The industry is seeing a trend towards consolidation, especially in more mature markets, as companies seek to achieve economies of scale and enhance their competitive position. However, the presence of numerous small and medium-sized enterprises continues to maintain market fragmentation in many regions. The competitive landscape is also shaped by varying levels of vertical integration, with some players focusing on specific segments of the value chain while others pursue end-to-end operations.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the African textile market increasingly depends on companies' ability to balance traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing capabilities. Market leaders are focusing on developing innovative products that meet evolving consumer preferences while maintaining cultural authenticity. Investment in research and development, particularly in sustainable materials and production processes, has become crucial for maintaining competitive advantage. Companies are also strengthening their supply chain resilience through diversification of sourcing and manufacturing locations. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences, while maintaining operational efficiency and product quality, will be key determinants of success.
For new entrants and growing players, success lies in identifying and serving niche market segments while building strong brand identities. The market presents opportunities for companies that can effectively combine traditional African luxury textile heritage with modern design and production techniques. Regulatory compliance, particularly regarding environmental standards and labor practices, is becoming increasingly important for market success. Companies must also navigate the complexities of regional trade agreements and varying regulatory requirements across different African countries. The ability to establish strong distribution networks and develop effective marketing strategies that resonate with both local and international consumers will be crucial for gaining market share.
Africa Textile Market Leaders
-
CIEL Textile Ltd.
-
Almeda Textile Factory Plc
-
Edcon
-
Truworths
-
Gelvenor Textiles
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Africa Textile Market News
- Feb 2021 - Truworths is launching a new value fashion chain called Primark. Truworths plans to open approximately 15 Primark stores over the next few months, with an average store size of 100m² during the launch trial phase. These will be a mix of standalone stores and others located in existing Truworths-owned stores. The launch of Primark suggests that Truworths which also owns Identity, YDE, Uzzi and Earthchild hopes to tap into the growth opportunities present in the budget clothing market focused on lower-income consumers.
Africa Textile Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS AND DYNAMICS
- 4.1 Market Overview
- 4.2 Market Drivers
- 4.3 Market Restraints
- 4.4 Value Chain / Supply Chain Analysis
-
4.5 Porters Five Force Analysis
- 4.5.1 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.5.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.5.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.5.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.5.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.6 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
-
5.1 Application
- 5.1.1 Clothing
- 5.1.2 Industrial/Technical Applications
- 5.1.3 Household Applications
-
5.2 Material Type
- 5.2.1 Cotton
- 5.2.2 Jute
- 5.2.3 Silk
- 5.2.4 Synthetics
- 5.2.5 Wool
-
5.3 Process
- 5.3.1 Woven
- 5.3.2 Non-woven
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Market Concentration Overview
-
6.2 Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 CIEL Textile Ltd.
- 6.2.2 Almeda Textile Factory Plc
- 6.2.3 Edcon
- 6.2.4 Truworths
- 6.2.5 Woolworths
- 6.2.6 Gelvenor Textiles
- 6.2.7 Mediterranean Textile Company S.A.E
- 6.2.8 Saygin-Dima Textile Sc
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
8. DISCLAIMER
Africa Textile Industry Segmentation
A complete background analysis of the Africa Textile Industry, which includes an assessment of the parental market, emerging trends by segments and regional markets, significant changes in market dynamics, and market overview, is covered in the report. The Market is Segmented By Application Type (Clothing, Industrial/Technical Applications, and Household Applications), By Material Type (Cotton, Jute, Silk, Synthetics, and Wool), and By Process Type (Woven and Non-woven). The report offers Market Size and forecasts for Africa Textile Market in Value (USD Billion) for all the above segments.
Application | Clothing |
Industrial/Technical Applications | |
Household Applications | |
Material Type | Cotton |
Jute | |
Silk | |
Synthetics | |
Wool | |
Process | Woven |
Non-woven |
Africa Textile Market Research FAQs
What is the current Africa Textile Market size?
The Africa Textile Market is projected to register a CAGR of greater than 4% during the forecast period (2025-2030)
Who are the key players in Africa Textile Market?
CIEL Textile Ltd., Almeda Textile Factory Plc, Edcon, Truworths and Gelvenor Textiles are the major companies operating in the Africa Textile Market.
What years does this Africa Textile Market cover?
The report covers the Africa Textile Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Africa Textile Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Africa Textile Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the textile industry. We specialize in diverse segments, including industrial textile, technical textile, and functional textile applications. Our extensive research covers everything from natural textile and cotton textile manufacturing to advanced smart textile innovations and digital textile technologies. The report offers detailed insights into the polyester textile, nonwoven textile, and geotextile sectors. It also examines emerging trends in sustainable textile and recycled textile development. Available as an easy-to-download report PDF, our analysis encompasses medical textile, automotive textile, and protective textile applications.
The report benefits stakeholders across the value chain, from fabric manufacturers to end-users. It offers crucial insights into printed textile innovations and antimicrobial textile developments. Our research thoroughly examines home textile markets alongside fashion textile and luxury textile segments. It also covers sports textile and military textile applications. The analysis includes detailed sections on synthetic textile, woven textile, and composite textile manufacturing. Additionally, it explores emerging organic textile and performance textile innovations. Stakeholders gain valuable insights into apparel textile trends and technical textile advancements, supported by comprehensive data on industrial textile manufacturing and distribution patterns across Africa.