The 40th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey shows a slight improvement in the global textile industry’s business situation. The survey was conducted from 21 to 29 September 2026.
The global business situation improved to -23 percentage points (pp). This is better than the -46pp recorded in November 2023. However, the textile industry remains under pressure amid continued uncertainty.
South Asia Reports Positive Business Conditions
South Asia recorded the strongest positive business situation at +13pp. Africa followed with +9pp.
Other regions reported weaker conditions. Europe stood at -36pp, while South America reached -44pp. North and Central America recorded the lowest result at -56pp.
Across the textile value chain, fibre producers were the only positive segment. They recorded +17pp. Spinners reported -33pp, while finishers stood at -42pp.
Textile machinery manufacturers also remained under pressure at -35pp. The survey links this to continued reluctance among companies to invest.
Business Expectations Improve
Business expectations for the next six months increased to +19pp. However, 46% of participants expect no change in business conditions.
Africa recorded the highest expectations at +59pp. East Asia remained negative at -20pp, while Southeast Asia reported -6pp.
Fibre producers were also the most confident segment for the coming six months. Their expectations reached +67pp.
Order Intake and Capacity Utilisation
Global order intake improved slightly to -24pp. South America recorded a new low of -69pp.
The global order backlog shortened slightly to 2.3 months. It has remained between two and 2.5 months since mid-2023.
Global capacity utilisation increased to 71%. This is above the 68% recorded in November 2023, but remains below the levels above 80% seen before late 2022.
Weak Demand Remains the Main Concern
Weak demand remains the leading concern for textile companies. It was cited by 56% of survey participants.
Cost pressures are also increasing. High raw material prices were cited by 42%, while high energy prices were reported by 41%.
Geopolitical concerns eased to 36%, compared with 46% in July.
Companies are also responding to US tariffs in several ways. About 29% are diversifying into non-US markets. Another 23% are investing in automation and efficiency, while 23% are absorbing higher costs.
Inventories Remain Lean
Order cancellations remain low at around 2% on average. However, cancellations have increased among finishers for three consecutive surveys.
Inventories remain lean across most regions. Southeast Asia recorded a record-low inventory level.
The Americas are an exception. High inventories and weak order intake point to a possible build-up of unsold stock.
The 40th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey indicates that the global textile industry has improved from its 2023 low. However, weak demand, rising costs and uneven regional conditions continue to affect the industry.
