07 April 2022, Mumbai:
According to statistics from January 2022, the US imported US $ 3.54 billion worth of man-made fibers (MMF), which is less than the US $ 3.70 billion worth of cotton imported in the same month.
In 2021, the narrative will be the same — at least, that's what the numbers show. In 2019, the US imported cotton apparel worth the US $ 38.70 billion, whereas MMF apparel was worth US $ 40.57 billion, and this trend continued in 2020 when cotton imports of US $ 29.82 billion were lower than MMF imports of US $ 31.21 billion.
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However, since 2021, when the US imported cotton apparel worth US $ 39.30 billion vs MMF apparel worth the US $ 38.70 billion, there has been some movement, albeit little, and the trend appears to be continuing in 2022 as well.
An examination of the figures over the previous 14 months appears to reveal a clear picture of the diminishing demand for polyester or MMF goods in the textile industry. To put it another way, cotton is becoming more popular.
Yes, one of the explanations has been the recent rise in crude oil prices, as MMF-based apparel is constructed of synthetic fibers that rely on intermediates such as pure terephthalic acid (PTA) and monoethylene glycol (MEG).
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While the rise in oil prices has reduced demand for MMF goods, it has reintroduced cotton into the spotlight. Cotton has traditionally been the most popular natural fiber, and cotton-made clothing, whether for adults or children, is still regarded as the most comfortable to wear.
As a result, it's not surprising that, according to a poll performed by Cotton Incorporated Cotton Lifestyle Monitor, nine out of ten customers agree that comfort is crucial in clothing buying decisions, with cotton apparel regarded as the most comfortable by 80 percent.
Furthermore, while 81 percent of customers believe cotton-made apparels are softer than MMF apparel, 93 percent believe natural fibers such as cotton provide superior quality clothing. That sums it up well.
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In fact, 73% of customers indicated cotton was more essential to them when buying home textiles. Cotton-made clothing has stood out due to its wonderful soft hand feel and excellent moisture absorption, especially in nations with hot climates. The soft-touch feel is particularly appealing to young parents who desire the same for their infants and children.
More to the point, roughly 82 percent of parents stated they prefer cotton or cotton mix goods for their children's clothing. It's also worth noting that polyester is heavier and denser than cotton, as well as being less breathable.
Polyester/MMF has long been considered to be less sustainable than cotton; nonetheless, pandemic-affected 2020 and 2021 witnessed an increase in consumers being more environmentally mindful while purchasing garments or fashion items.
As a result, there has been an increase in demand for cotton-based clothing.
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CREDITS: Apparel Resources.
