According to recent data from the General Administration of Customs, China's clothing exports reached $1.338 billion, reflecting a 33.6% increase, while textile exports soared to $8.24 billion, up by 47.5%. This marks a significant jump compared to last year’s growth rate of 23.6%. However, despite these positive numbers, it raises an important question: why does this seemingly encouraging data not fully reflect the true state of China’s textile industry? Is it simply due to the devaluation of the Vietnamese dong against the U.S. dollar? In my view, the devaluation is more of a warning signal rather than the main cause.
At the end of last year, textile raw materials such as cotton and additives saw sharp price increases, along with rising land costs and labor expenses. These factors have driven up production costs in China, pushing many orders overseas. According to reports from "Yangguang News," the Vietnamese dong has undergone three devaluations over the past 14 months. By February this year, it had lost 9.3% of its value against the U.S. dollar. As a result, many foreign orders have shifted to Vietnam without hesitation. China, once the global leader in textile manufacturing, now finds itself sidelined in this competitive landscape.
What’s even more concerning is that Vietnam is quickly emerging as a new manufacturing hub. The advantages that once gave China an edge—such as a large population and low-cost labor—are no longer sufficient. We must ask ourselves: do we need to focus on innovation, technology, and product patents to secure a stronger position in the global market? Can we find a place where our industry is indispensable?
Meanwhile, another issue is the growing difficulty in hiring workers in the textile sector, especially after the Spring Festival. Many migrant workers are no longer entering cities as they once did. Why is this happening? The dyeing and finishing industry is known for long hours (often 12 hours a day), manual labor, poor working conditions, and low wages. As a result, many students majoring in textile dyeing and finishing are choosing different career paths, leading to a severe shortage of labor. How many foreign orders will continue to be placed if production can’t be guaranteed? Should we consider improving processes, optimizing operations, and enhancing employee welfare?
Another challenge comes from environmental costs. While China has long relied on cheap labor, it has also borne significant environmental burdens. The dyeing and finishing industry is one of the most polluting sectors, with many factories illegally discharging wastewater to cut costs. With stricter environmental regulations in place, many small-scale dyeing plants have been forced to shut down or halt operations. This has created a real setback for the textile manufacturing industry.
In addition, the quality and functionality of Chinese textiles must evolve. Global trends in fabric styles and textile functions are constantly changing, and consumer demands are becoming more sophisticated. It’s crucial for the industry to conduct thorough market research, stay ahead of trends, and invest in innovation. Developing better functional finishes, creating advanced additive products, and continuously raising the standard of textiles are all essential steps toward building a strong brand presence.
To strengthen resilience and adaptability, the entire textile supply chain—from production processes and equipment to chemicals and dyes—must undergo modernization. Reducing energy consumption, streamlining workflows, and upgrading the industry as a whole are key strategies for future success.
The alarm bell is ringing. Are we ready to face the challenges ahead?
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