The Italian textile industry is among those that have been the most affected by globalization and the economic crisis, but it is now seeing light at the end of the tunnel. The sector showed clear signs of recovery in 2014 and this upturn was made possible due to its ability to react with strong innovation and greater internationalization, while preserving an enduring its tradition of excellence. talian fabrics sales increased by 3.8 per cent last year, with an overall turnover exceeding the €8 billion threshold for the first time since 2011.

Exports grew by 3.3 per cent and domestic demand rose by 4.4 per cent after years of either stagnation or decline. Trade surplus of fabrics contributed 25 per cent to the surplus of the whole textile and clothing and fashion industries. Many companies are focusing on innovation, and creating original products in terms of new shapes, colors, and fabrics to compete on the global market.

During the last few years the Italian textile industry has been moving out of basic textile product segments and focusing on end product segments. The segments concentrated on are pullovers, apparel and underwear. Producers are typically small to medium, operating in niche markets although there are also multinational groups especially in the luxury segment.