Export value of apparels and textiles Thailand 2019-2023
In 2023, Thailand exported approximately six billion U.S. dollars worth of apparel and textile materials, which slightly decreased from the previous year. Some of Thailand's main exported apparel and textile products are artificial fibers, yarns, and ready-made clothing. In comparison, the country's import value of clothing items amounted to more than five billion in the same year.
Production of apparels and textiles in Thailand
Thailand has a strong position as a leading apparel and textiles producer due to several advantages, such as low-cost labor and an abundance of raw materials. Furthermore, it has signed several Free Trade Agreements, opening more markets for goods produced in Thailand. In addition, the number of ready-made clothes factories was the highest among textile and apparel plants in Thailand, amounting to 2,607 plants in 2023.
Domestic sales of apparels
In 2020, Thai consumers spent less on clothing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the drop, the apparel buying trend recovered in 2022 as seen on Thailand's retail price index of clothes, footwear, and leather goods. According to a survey conducted in February 2022 among Thai consumers, department stores received the highest score as the preferred location for buying clothes. Official websites of the clothing brands came second in the poll.