Although the total global business balance for the sector is still in negative territory at -15pp, there has been a noticeable improvement since November 2024.
The survey, conducted in January 2025, shows that instances of order cancellations remain minimal, inventory levels are holding steady, and spinners are increasingly confident about a resurgence in demand despite persistent challenges within the textile supply chain.
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This positive trajectory is particularly pronounced in South America, where the business balance has reached an encouraging +21pp.
Looking forward, 43% of respondents anticipate better business conditions over the next half-year. This sentiment boosts the global outlook to a positive balance of +29pp.
Regions such as South America and specific producer groups like spinners, with balances of +46pp and +45pp respectively, are notably optimistic.
The survey reports that order intake is on an upward track, with January 2025 figures showing a balance of -6pp. This marks continued progress over a 14-month period.
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By GlobalDataSouth Asia and South America have recorded strong positive results, although home textiles remains the only category with a consistently positive balance.
The global order backlog has also increased to an average of 2.5 months, with North & Central America experiencing even higher demand at 2.9 months.
Meanwhile, the global capacity utilisation rate has decreased slightly to 72%, staying above previous lows but reflecting ongoing concerns.
In addition, the survey underscores apprehensions about weak demand and geopolitical uncertainties. High energy costs and raw material prices continue to exert pressure on textile businesses.
In an interview with Just Style last year, ITMF Secretary General Dr Christian Schindler that artificial intelligence (AI) is a key focus as rising apparel production costs and geopolitical challenges create a volatile global environment not witnessed in the past four decades.
