Fabrics China Uses: From Ancient Silks to Modern Synthetics

China, the world’s largest textile producer, utilizes a vast palette:

Natural Fibers

• Cotton: #1 globally in production/consumption. Apparel, home textiles, nonwovens.
• Silk: 70%+ of world output. Luxury wear, haute couture, traditional garments.
• Wool: Major importer/processor. Suits, knitwear, carpets.
• Linen (flax), Ramie, Hemp, Jute: Niche but growing (sustainability).

Synthetic & Regenerated

• Polyester: ~60% of China’s fiber output. Fast fashion, sportswear, blends.
• Nylon: Leading producer. Hosiery, swimwear, industrial.
• Viscose/Rayon: Largest global capacity. Silk substitute, linings, dresses.
• Acrylic, Spandex, Modal, Lyocell (Tencel): Expanding.

Drivers of Choice

Cost, performance, sustainability mandates (dual carbon goals), and end-use—from $2 tees to spacesuit composites. China’s textile clusters (Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Guangdong, Shandong) cover the full spectrum.