Why has the textile industry declined so much recently?

The textile industry was once a pillar of global manufacturing, but in recent years, it has faced declining production, factory closures, and increasing environmental concerns. Shifting trade policies, outsourcing, automation, and fast fashion’s unsustainable practices have reshaped the industry.

The textile industry's decline is due to rising production costs, overseas competition, automation, and environmental concerns. Many traditional textile hubs, including the U.S., have lost manufacturing jobs to countries with lower labor costs, such as China, India, and Bangladesh.

Let’s explore what happened to the U.S. textile industry¹, the impact of textile waste², and the factors behind the downfall of the cotton industry³.

What happened to the US textile industry?

The U.S. was once a global leader in textile production, but today, much of its manufacturing has moved overseas.

The U.S. textile industry declined due to offshoring, high labor costs, automation, and shifting consumer demand. While some domestic production remains, most textile jobs have been outsourced to countries with cheaper labor.

Mass Textile Production

Key reasons for the decline of U.S. textile manufacturing

U.S. textile production today

Despite its decline, the U.S. still produces some textiles, mainly in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Alabama. Companies like Milliken & Co. and Unifi manufacture high-tech fabrics for military, medical, and sports applications.

Can the U.S. textile industry recover?

1. Investing in sustainable textiles – Recycled and organic fabrics could create new opportunities.
2. Government incentives – Tariffs and trade policies could support local production.
3. Automation & reshoring – Robotics may make U.S. manufacturing more competitive.

Who is the biggest textile company in the US?

Even though much of textile production has moved overseas, several large U.S. textile companies remain industry leaders.

The biggest textile company in the U.S. is Milliken & Company, specializing in innovative fabrics for fashion, automotive, and healthcare industries. Other major players include Elevate Textiles, Unifi, and Burlington Industries.

Largest U.S. textile manufacturers

Why Milliken & Co. remains dominant

• Focus on innovation – Produces high-tech textiles for multiple industries.
• Sustainability leadership – Invests in recycled fibers and eco-friendly production.
• Diverse market reach – Supplies clothing, medical fabrics, automotive materials, and military textiles.

The future of U.S. textile companies

• More investment in sustainable materials (e.g., bio-based textiles, recycled fabrics).
• Reshoring efforts to bring textile production back to the U.S.
• Advancements in textile technology, including smart fabrics.

Why is there so much textile waste?

The rise of fast fashion and overproduction has led to an alarming increase in textile waste.

Textile waste is primarily caused by mass production, low-quality fast fashion, and a lack of proper recycling infrastructure. Millions of tons of clothing end up in landfills every year, contributing to environmental pollution.

Main causes of textile waste

Shocking statistics on textile waste

• 92 million tons of textile waste are generated globally each year.
• Only 15% of discarded clothing gets recycled, while the rest ends up in landfills or incinerated.
• Fast fashion brands release over 50 micro-seasons per year, promoting constant consumption.

Solutions to reduce textile waste

1. Encouraging circular fashion – Brands should focus on resale, rental, and clothing repairs.
2. Improving textile recycling – Governments and companies must invest in recycling technology.
3. Consumer education – Encouraging people to buy quality over quantity.

What caused the downfall of the cotton industry?

Cotton was once one of the most valuable global commodities, but today, the industry faces multiple challenges.

The downfall of the cotton industry is due to synthetic fabric alternatives, climate change, and declining demand. Polyester and other artificial fibers have overtaken cotton in fashion production, leading to reduced cotton farming and processing.

Key factors behind the decline of cotton

Why synthetic fabrics replaced cotton

• Lower cost – Polyester is cheaper than cotton and lasts longer.
• Wrinkle resistance – Synthetic fabrics require less ironing.
• Moisture-wicking properties – Polyester performs better in sportswear.

Can the cotton industry recover?

1. Organic cotton growth – Consumers are demanding more sustainable, pesticide-free cotton.
2. Water-efficient farming methods – New irrigation techniques can reduce water usage.
3. Blending with synthetics – Hybrid fabrics (e.g., cotton-poly blends) may boost demand.

Conclusion

The textile industry's decline has been driven by globalization, automation, and fast fashion, leading to job losses, environmental damage, and increased textile waste. In the U.S., companies like Milliken & Co. and Unifi continue to innovate, while the cotton industry struggles against synthetic alternatives. Addressing these challenges requires sustainable practices, investment in recycling, and reshoring efforts to rebuild the domestic textile industry.