How to export textiles and apparel?
Global Export Strategy for Fashion Apparel, Functional Fabrics, and Textiles
Market Overview
The global textile/apparel market is approximately $1.5 trillion. South Korea is competitive in functional textiles, sportswear, and premium clothing, and the popularity of K-fashion is driving an increase in clothing exports.
Key Export Markets
The United States, EU, Japan, China, and Southeast Asia are key markets. Since each market has different preferred styles, sizing systems, and labeling requirements, localization is essential.
Mandatory Certification
There are certifications such as OEKO-TEX (harmful substance testing), GOTS (organic textiles), GRS (recycled textiles), WRAP (social responsibility), and CE marking (personal protective equipment).
Buyer Types
There are fashion brands (OEM/ODM), retail chains, online fashion malls, fabric importers, and sportswear brands.
Major Exhibitions
Magic Las Vegas (USA, February/August), Premiere Vision (France, February/September), Intertextile Shanghai (China, March/September), and ISPO Munich (Germany, January) are representative examples.
Buyer Type
Fashion brand
Brands that request clothing production through OEM/ODM methods.
Retail chain
Clothing specialty stores, department stores, large supermarkets
Fabric Importer
A trader importing fabrics and materials
Mandatory Certification
Major Exhibitions
| common.tableHeaders.tradeShowName | common.tableHeaders.location | common.tableHeaders.period |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Las Vegas | Las Vegas, USA | February/August |
| Premiere Vision | Paris, France | February/September |
| ISPO Munich | Munich, Germany | January |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is OEKO-TEX certification?
A. This is an international standard certifying that textile products are free from harmful substances. It is often required to secure consumer trust and when dealing with European buyers.
Q. How should size specifications be indicated when exporting clothing?
A. You need to convert sizes according to the export country standards. Appropriate notations for each market are required, such as the US (S/M/L or inches), EU (34/36/38 or cm), and Japan (sizes).