According to a report by marketsandmarkets.com, ‘Textile Recycling Market – Global Forecast to 2030,’ the global textile recycling market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2 per cent from $8.41 billion in 2025 to $11.88 billion by 2030.
This rapid growth is driven by a combination of environmental, economic, and regulatory factors. As the global textile industry expands, particularly with the rise of fast fashion, a massive amount of waste is being generated. This has led to growing concerns about pollution, resource depletion, and climate change, prompting consumers and brands to embrace circular business models. Additionally, governments worldwide are implementing stricter policies, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and landfill bans, which are pushing manufacturers to manage their waste more responsibly. Advances in mechanical and chemical recycling are also making it more feasible to process complex fiber blends.
The polyester and polyester fibers segment is the fastest-growing material in the market due to its widespread use in fast fashion and activewear. Advancements in chemical recycling now allow for the creation of high-quality, recycled polyester (rPET), which is increasingly being adopted by brands to meet their sustainability goals.
The pre-consumer textile waste category is projected to grow fastest because it is easier to recycle. Pre-consumer waste, such as cutting scraps and production overruns, is cleaner and more uniform than post-consumer waste. Brands are creating closed-loop systems to recycle this waste internally and align with zero-waste goals.
The online channel is growing rapidly due to its convenience and scalability. Digital platforms simplify textile collection, resale, and donation, while e-commerce sites boost sales of recycled products with features like digital labels and sustainability credentials.
The Asia Pacific region is expected to have the highest CAGR. As the world’s dominant textile manufacturing hub, countries like China, India, and Bangladesh generate a massive supply of waste. Governments in the region are increasingly focusing on sustainable waste management, and international brands are investing in local recycling infrastructure to meet global targets. This combination of supply, policy support, and growing awareness is positioning Asia Pacific as a leader in textile recycling.
