China’s Technical Textiles Industry Maintains Stable Operation from January to April 2026

Production and Profits

During the first four months of 2026, China’s technical textiles industry continued to operate steadily. Industrial value-added output grew moderately.Nonwoven fabric  output by large-scale enterprises rose 6.4% year on year, while cord fabric output increased 2%, though at a slower pace than the first quarter. However, overall economic performance weakened slightly. Revenue and total profits of major producers fell by 0.4% and 9.6% respectively, with the profit margin down 0.3 percentage points to 3.4%. Among sub-sectors, rope and cable products saw revenue rise 6.3% but profit margins decline slightly. Tarpaulin and sailcloth revenue grew 9.2%, yet profits dropped 9.8%.  Nonwovens materials   managed a small profit increase of 0.5%.

Import and Export Trade

Exports remained a bright spot. From January to April, the industry’s total export value reached US$14.82 billion, up 4.6% year on year. Imports edged up 3.1% to US$1.81 billion. Nonwovens exports surged 8.4% in value and 12.9% in volume. Disposable hygiene products (diapers, sanitary napkins) grew 12.3%, while wet wipes jumped 15.6%. The top three export destinations were the US (down 2.9%), Vietnam (up 5.6%) and Japan (down 2%). Exports to Belt and Road Initiative partner countries hit US$8.9 billion, accounting for 60% of the total and rising 5.6%.

Raw Material Prices

Chemical fiber prices stayed high overall in early 2026. A spike occurred in March due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and supply concerns in the Strait of Hormuz. From April to May, prices began to diverge as optimism over possible US-Iran talks eased supply fears, and government measures stabilized bulk commodities. Domestic supply of polyester staple fiber and nylon remained ample, pushing prices down. In contrast, viscose and lyocell prices rose due to low inventories, dissolving pulp cost support, and green demand. Companies are advised to manage inventory carefully, monitor Nonwovens   market changes, and improve resilience through product optimization.