Record Increase in Global Fiber Production
The Materials Market Report 2025, published by Textile Exchange, comprehensively reveals the current levels of raw material production in the global textile industry and the transformation in the use of certified fibers. The data shared in the report clearly demonstrates the rapid growth in global fiber production and the trends that are critically important for sustainability.
Global fiber production, which was approximately 125 million tons in 2023, rose to 132 million tons in 2024, surpassing another significant threshold. Thus, it has been officially confirmed that global fiber production has more than doubled since the year 2000. Projections in the report indicate that if current trends continue, production could reach 169 million tons by 2030. However, this growth also brings certain risks that make it difficult for the sector to achieve a transformation aligned with climate goals. This is because the textile industry still remains highly dependent on fossil-based synthetic fibers. Polyester, the most produced fiber type today, accounts for 59% of total fiber production, and 88% of this amount is fossil-based polyester.
Although the volume of recycled polyester is increasing, its market growth rate remains slower than the growth rate of newly produced fossil-based polyester. Recycled polyester production, which stood at 8.9 million tons in 2023, rose to 9.3 million tons in 2024. However, this increase still leaves its share within total production at around 12%.
In the case of cotton, the picture is reversed. Global cotton production declined by 1% in the 2023/24 season, falling to 24.5 million tons. This decline is notable, especially considering cotton holds the second-largest share after polyester. The share of recycled fibers within total fiber production reached 7.6% in 2024, with the majority again consisting of recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles. The share of fibers obtained from pre- and post-consumer textile waste still remains below 1%.
Certified Fibers and Traceability: The Key to Sustainable Transformation
One of the positive developments highlighted in the report is the strong momentum in certified fiber production. Today, 34% of global cotton production comes from certified sources. Man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF), two-thirds of which originate from certified or controlled sources, also offer a significant advantage in terms of sustainable supply chains. Additionally, the fact that half of global mohair production is certified under Textile Exchange’s Responsible Mohair Standard is emphasized as a noteworthy improvement.
The data shows that the commitments of brands and manufacturers regarding traceability and transparency are becoming increasingly important. Certification systems play a critical role in the textile sector’s sustainability journey by enabling verification, measurement, and comparison. The report also repeatedly underlines the need to increase recycling capacity, accelerate technological innovations, and expand investments in circular production.
It’s Time to Approach Resources More Responsibly
Textile Exchange states that the report not only presents data but also serves as a strong call guiding the sector toward a climate-friendly, responsible, and fair transformation. The key message highlighted in the report is clear: “It’s time to approach resources more responsibly.” Developing traceable supply chains, supporting recycling innovations, and expanding the use of certified raw materials stand out as the main themes that will shape the future of the textile sector.
In conclusion, the Materials Market Report 2025 shows that the sector continues to grow at record levels, yet this growth can be redesigned within a sustainability framework. As fiber production increases, significant opportunities still exist to create a more environmentally friendly, more traceable, and more responsible textile industry.
