Global fiber production reaches 124 million tons in 2023: Textile Exchange Report

Global fiber production reached a record 124 million tons in 2023, a 7 per cent rise from 116 million tonnes in 2022, according to Textile Exchange’s latest Materials Market Report. Despite industry efforts toward sustainability, the share of virgin fossil-based synthetics continued to rise, overshadowing other fibers.

Virgin synthetic fiber production increased from 67 million tons in 2022 to 75 million tons in 2023, with polyester dominating at 57 per cent of global output. Recycled synthetics faced challenges, with recycled polyester's market share dropping to 12.5 per cent from 13.6 per cent due to lower virgin fiber prices and recycling limitations.

Cotton production dipped slightly to 24.4 million tons, though sustainably produced cotton remained stable at 29 per cent. Certified wool production rose from 4.2 to 4.8 per cent, while certified mohair and cashmere achieved nearly half of their respective market shares. Manmade cellulosic fibers grew to 7.9 million tons, making up 6 per cent of the market.

The report calls for urgent innovation in textile recycling and support for sustainable material systems to meet climate goals. Claire Bergkamp, CEO, Textile Exchange, emphasized the need to accelerate transitions to preferred materials and reduce reliance on virgin synthetics.