Circular Knitting Machine Market Insights
The global Circular Knitting Machine market is experiencing steady growth, fueled by the increasing demand for high-quality knitted fabrics in various industries such as apparel textiles, home textiles, automotive textiles, and medical textiles. These machines play a pivotal role in the production of diverse knitted fabrics such as T-shirts, sportswear, towels, bedding, automotive upholstery, and more. The market is characterized by key players like Baiyuan Machine, Mayer & Cie, Terrot, Santoni, Jingmei, Fukuhara, and Tayu, among others.
Market Size and Growth Forecast
The Circular Knitting Machine market is estimated to be valued at $480 million in 2025 and is projected to reach $517 million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 1.5% over the forecast period. The market’s expansion is driven by the continuous demand for textiles across various sectors and innovations in knitting technology that improve fabric production efficiency and quality.
Market Share and Trend Analysis
By Product Type
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Single-Jersey Machines: These machines are primarily used to produce single-faced fabrics for products like innerwear, T-shirts, sportswear, and towels. Single-Jersey Machines account for about 35% of the market share, with steady demand driven by apparel and sports textile production.
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Double-Jersey Machines: Double-Jersey Machines are widely used for producing high-end textiles such as luxury apparel, bedding, home textiles, footwear fabrics, luggage textiles, functional fabrics, and automotive upholstery. They dominate the market, accounting for approximately 65% of the total market share, driven by the demand for more intricate and durable fabrics in diverse sectors.
By Region
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China: Dominates the Circular Knitting Machine market, accounting for approximately 70% of the global market share. China’s significant market share is due to its established textile industry, large-scale production capabilities, and high demand for knitted fabrics in apparel and home textiles.
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Southeast Asia: Holds about 11% of the market, driven by the growing textile manufacturing industry in countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, which have become key hubs for garment production.
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Other Asia-Pacific Regions: Together, countries in this region account for around 6% of the market share, with nations like India contributing to the expanding textile sector.
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Americas: The Americas region represents around 7% of the market share, supported by demand in both North and South America, particularly in the apparel and automotive textiles industries.
Market Opportunities
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Growing Demand for Technical Textiles: The rising demand for functional fabrics, particularly in automotive, medical, and sports industries, presents significant growth opportunities for Circular Knitting Machines.
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Advancements in Technology: Continuous innovation in machine design and automation has enabled more efficient production of complex fabrics, leading to greater adoption in various sectors such as home textiles and automotive upholstery.
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Expansion in Emerging Markets: With the rapid industrialization of countries in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and other developing regions, the demand for Circular Knitting Machines is set to rise, providing new market opportunities for manufacturers.
Market Challenges
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High Initial Investment: The capital-intensive nature of Circular Knitting Machines poses a challenge, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may struggle to make the necessary investments.
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Competition from Alternative Technologies: Other types of knitting machines, such as flat knitting and warp knitting machines, can sometimes offer cost-effective alternatives, challenging the growth potential of circular knitting machines in specific applications.
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Skilled Labor Shortage: The operation and maintenance of high-tech circular knitting machines require specialized skills, and the lack of skilled technicians in certain regions could limit the potential for growth and expansion.