Global fashion brands are looking to source more clothing items from Africa to reduce their reliance on Asia-based manufacturers. Kenya and Ethiopia have emerged as favorite locations as multinationals diversify away from countries such as Bangladesh, one of the largest exporters of textiles.

The bulk of Kenya’s textiles are exported to the United States under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) agreement that allows for duty-free imports of select items from low-income countries in the continent. Increased contract manufacturing in the country is expected to boost exports in the textile industry whose earnings and production have dropped significantly from a peak in the 1980s.

Over the past couple of years, serious interest in African countries as a major sourcing destination for apparel has grown. With the recent renewal of African Growth and Opportunity Act through 2025, which allows certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa duty-free access to the US market, the buzz around Africa has become even louder.

Major companies including PVH, VF Corp, H&M, Primark and Tesco began sourcing a portion of their garments from this region a few years ago and it quickly made its way to the forefront as a region of opportunity for many apparel brands.