Viscose Staple Fiber Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (High Wet Modulus Fiber, Strong Fiber, Modified Fiber, and Others), By Application (Woven, Non-Woven, and Specialty), By End-Use Industry (Textile Apparels, Healthcare, Automotive, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030

The global viscose staple fiber market size was valued at USD 13.32 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow from USD 13.91 billion in 2023 to USD 20.16 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period.

A form of cellulose fiber is produced by regenerating natural materials, such as cotton linter or wood pulp and is known as Viscose Staple Fiber (VSF). The softness, drapeability, and absorbency of these fibers make them popular for clothes, home textiles, and other consumer goods. Automotive industries use fabrics and textiles in various applications including carpets, interior trim & headliners, textile reinforcement in composite parts, and exterior textile parts. Such widespread applications of these fibers and increasing preference for sustainable products are expected to increase the viscose staple fiber market growth.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Supply Chain Disruptions due to Spread of COVID-19 Reduced Production of Viscose Staple Fibers

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2019 forced many countries to impose restrictions on material transportation and distribution, and shut down manufacturing plants, thereby affecting the production of VSFs. The closing of manufacturing sites and decreased sales of textile products and clothing impacted the demand for VSF. Many apparel and clothing manufacturers reduced or temporarily shut down their operations, negatively impacting the market growth.

The pandemic also reduced the demand for formal or other types of clothing due to the growing popularity of work-from-home culture. During the outbreak, many consumers decreased their spending on non-essential items such as apparel and fashion products. Additionally, the demand for VSFs dipped during this phase due to supply chain disruptions, simultaneously raising the production cost and causing raw material shortage. As a result, the prices for these fibers increased. Several import-export restrictions were implemented by various governments, such as China, the world’s largest consumer and producer of viscose staple fibers. The Chinese government implemented trade restrictions to fulfill domestic demand, resulting in a supply-demand mismatch in the international market.

LATEST TRENDS

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Recycling and Circularity in the Fashion Industry to Create New Opportunities for Market Growth

The adoption of a closed-loop production process, which recycles materials and reduces waste, is one of the key ways the fashion industry is moving toward a circular economy. VSF is an excellent choice for closed-loop production since it can be recycled and reused for the production of new fabrics.

The circular fashion economy is beginning to focus on recycled viscose for closed-loop production. By breaking down old fabrics and spinning them into fresh yarns, recycled viscose can be manufactured. This process is a sustainable source of raw materials for viscose production, which mitigates the industry’s environmental impact.

The dire need for environmentally friendly and sustainable products is propelling the circular fashion demand. The demand for sustainable fibers, such as viscose staple fibers is anticipated to increase drastically as customers become more aware of the environmental impact of clothes. Several manufacturers and recyclers are partnering with each other to incorporate recycled feedstock. Collaborative efforts from all stakeholders in the fashion industry are expected to create new opportunities for the market. The push toward circularity is expected to spur the development of innovative recycling and production technologies, creating opportunities for the market players to create sustainable production methods.

DRIVING FACTORS

Increasing Demand for VSF in the Fashion & Apparel Industry to Boost Market Growth

Viscose staple fiber is considered a highly versatile material which is extensively used in the fashion & apparel industry. Increasing consumer preference for sustainable materials has bolstered the product demand in the fashion & apparel sector. This fiber is used as a substitute for cotton or polyester due to its beneficial properties, such as high moisture absorbency, good breathability, and comfort.

The growing usage of this fiber in the textile and fashion industries has made it a popular choice among consumers due to the fabric’s softness and comfort. It is often utilized in sportswear, jackets, suits, and ties. The cost-effectiveness of these fibers makes it an ideal substitute for natural fibers, such as cotton and silk. Such characteristics have increased the usage of VSF among clothing manufacturers. The growing availability of these fibers in the demanding fashion industry is bolstering their demand. VSF is produced in large quantities and is broadly available, which makes it an easy-to-source material for various end-users.

The changing purchasing habits of consumers, rising disposable income, and shifting fashion trends are driving the expansion of the apparel industry. A range of high-quality garments and textiles are produced using these fibers, which is categorized as a hybrid nylon fiber. As a result, expansion of the apparel industry is anticipated to further drive the fabric’s demand. Overall, the demand for these fibers in the apparel and fashion industry is expected to increase significantly due to its eco-friendliness, affordability, versatility, and growing consumer awareness regarding sustainable fashion.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Environment Issues Regarding Production of VSF to Hamper Market Growth

Viscose staple fiber has gained significant traction as it is considered a sustainable alternative to polyester or cotton.  However, although this fiber is sourced from cellulose (wood pulp), the production process has several environmental issues, such as water pollution, high energy consumption, deforestation, and overuse of chemicals during production.

The most prominent threat impeding the market’s growth is deforestation, as VSF is produced from wood pulp mostly sourced from natural forests rather than sustainably harvested trees, restricting the market progress. Harvesting trees and plants, such as bamboo, sugar cane, beech, eucalyptus, and pine leads to deforestation, which hampers the local ecosystem, climate, and biodiversity. But the production of viscose fiber is energy-intensive as it involves processes, such as spinning, filaments (spinneret), weaving, and knitting. Fossil fuels used to produce energy also contribute to greenhouse emission.

To overcome such environmental issues, several market players are developing sustainable networks, such as sourcing wood pulp from a certified supplier, utilizing renewable energy, and creating a less water & energy-intensive production process.

SEGMENTATION

By Type Analysis

Strong Fiber Segment to Hold Larger Market Share Due to its Versatility

Based on type, the market is segmented into high wet modulus fiber, strong fiber, modified fiber, and others. The strong fiber segment accounted for the largest market share in 2022. Viscose fabric made from strong viscose fibers is generally used as an alternative to cotton and has comparatively lower production costs. Strong fibers are used for manufacturing industrial, medical, and domestic fabrics and apparel. Since this fabric is made from organic materials, it is sometimes superior to synthetic fabrics, such as polyester. Growing demand for organic and sustainable materials will primarily drive the adoption of strong viscose fibers.

Modified fiber segment is expected to be the fastest-growing, owing to the growing demand for reinforced fabrics. Modified fibers are highly used to support various materials and composites to improve the physical, electrical as well as mechanical properties of the material. The High Wet Modulus (HWM) viscose fiber is used in knitted outerwear and undergarments. The superior washing performance of HWM interlock fabrics makes it an attractive option over cotton. Viscose fibers are an excellent alternative to cotton and comparatively cost-effective as well. Hence, they are used widely in the fashion and clothing industry.

By Application Analysis

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Woven Segment to be Fastest Growing Application due to Its Cost-Effectiveness

In terms of application, the market is segmented into woven, non-woven, and specialty. The woven segment accounted for the largest viscose staple fiber market share in 2022. Woven fabrics are generally cost-effective, sturdier, and lighter than non-woven and knitted fabrics. The growing demand for durable, reliable, and high-performance fabrics from industries will drive the demand for woven fabrics.

Bonding fibers manufacture non-woven fabrics through various methods, such as mechanical or chemical adhesion, heat treatment, or sometimes both. Non-woven fabrics have comparatively higher resilience, washability, and bacterial protection capabilities. Moreover, these fabrics can be customized to enhance certain features including liquid repellency, thermal & electrical insulation, flame retardancy, impact resistance, and others.

By End-Use Industry Analysis

Textile Apparel Industry to Lead Market Growth with Increasing Product Demand from Fashion Industry

Based on end-use industry, the market is segmented into textile apparels, healthcare, automotive, and others. In 2022, the textile apparels segment accounted for the majority of the market share. Viscose fibers are majorly used to manufacture textiles and clothing. Viscose staple fabrics are soft, wrinkle-free, highly absorbent, comfortable, and cost-effective. In healthcare applications, viscose staple fibers are used to manufacture medical textiles. Owing to its softness, high absorbency, and safe nature, it is highly used in absorbent pads and other materials used in surgical applications.

Automotive textiles are widely used in transportation systems and vehicles such as cars, buses, trains, marine vehicles, and airplanes. The rising automotive production and rapid industrialization have increased the quantity of textiles used in automobiles.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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The market size in Asia Pacific stood at USD 9.58 billion in 2022. A large manufacturing base for viscose fibers in countries, such as China and India, is expected to propel the market growth. The strong growth of this market is associated with the rapid industrial expansion in the region. Furthermore, increasing demand for textiles from various end-use industries in the region will surge the demand for viscose staple fibers.

The North America market recorded significant growth and is anticipated to retain its dominance during the forecast period due to the growing demand for viscose staple fibers for automotive and textile applications. The increasing need for essentials including clothes and hygiene products, and initiatives by the governments to practice sustainability are bolstering the product demand. The strong growth of end-use industries is expected to boost the demand for viscose fibers in the region.

In Europe, Germany accounted for the largest market share in 2022. Germany is the most technologically advanced market for automobiles. The rapid growth of the country's automotive industry due to consumers' increasing expenditure capacity will positively influence the market. Countries, such as the U.K., Italy, and France, have a major influence on the growing product demand in Europe. The U.K. and France have strong textile sectors. The fashion industry in Europe has great competition. Cities, such as Paris, London, and Milan, are considered the fashion hubs of Europe. Such aforementioned factors are expected to drive the demand for VSFs.

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Latin America is expected to grow significantly due to rapid industrialization and demand for fabrics for various end-use applications. Growing demand for fabrics from domestic and industrial sectors is driving the market growth. Various initiatives put forth by the governments to increase production activities are expected to drive the market growth. For instance, in February 2021, Paraguay’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce announced an investment of USD 1.1 million in the industrial sector to promote the clothing, textiles, and footwear industries, amongst other areas linked to assembly procedures. The growing population in the Middle East and Africa and rising purchasing power are expanding the textile industry and driving the market.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Companies to Implement Business Expansion and Other Strategies

Sateri, Lenzing Group, Kelheim Fibers GmbH, and Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical Co., Ltd. are some of the key producers operating in the market. The majority of these players are involved in product innovation, capacity improvement, acquisitions, and collaborations. Some key companies are focusing on incorporating novel technologies to improve efficiency and curb wastewater production during the production process.

For instance, Grasim Industries Limited announced that its Nagda unit would be the first production unit to achieve zero liquid discharge in the MMCF industry. Grasim will incorporate novel technologies, such as membrane processes to recycle and clean wastewater. In the wake of utilizing renewable energy, companies, such as LENZING Group, are switching to green electricity at its Chinese subsidiary Lenzing Nanjing Fibers and Indonesian subsidiary PT. South Pacific Viscose (SPV). The electricity at these plants is generated solely from renewable sources. Both of the sites are engaged in the production of branded specialty viscose.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Grasim Industries Limited. (India)


• LENZING Group (Austria)


• Tangshan Sanyou Group Xingda Chemical Fiber Co. Ltd (China)


• Sateri Holdings Limited (China)


• Kelheim Fibers GmbH (Germany)


• Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical Co., Ltd. (China)


• Kayavlon Impex Pvt. Ltd. (India)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• March 2022 - Birla Cellulose and Renewcell, a textile-to-textile recycling innovator, signed a letter of intent to start a long-term commercial collaboration. The agreement confirmed the supply of high-quality Liva Reviva textile fibers made using Circulose, Renewcell’s 100% recycled textile raw material.


• November 2022- The LENZING Group completed a milestone of producing 300,000 tons of LENZING ECOVERO branded fibers, with a target to double the production capacity by 2023 due to rising demand.


• July 2021- Sateri continued collaborating with Infinited Fiber Company - a textile fiber technology group, and invested USD 35.7 million for the same. The collaboration was formed due to Sateri’s commitment toward circular, closed-loop, and climate-positive production of cellulosic fibers.


• May 2021- Sateri announced that it would acquire the viscose fiber business of Funing Aoyang Technology Co., Ltd. The acquisition was part of Sateri’s growth strategy to increase its market footprint. This move was expected to increase the production capacity by more than 1.8 million tonnes.


• September 2020- Sateri collaborated with DuPont to develop a new fabric known as StretchCosy. The new fabric was a blend of Sateri’s EcoCosy and DuPont’s Sorona, which was well-suited for sportswear and fashion apparel.

REPORT COVERAGE

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The research report provides detailed market analysis and focuses on crucial aspects such as leading companies, types, applications, end-user industries, and products. Also, it provides quantitative data regarding volume, value, market analysis, research methodology for market data, and insights into the latest market trends. The report highlights vital industry developments and the competitive landscape as well. In addition to the abovementioned factors, the report encompasses various factors that have contributed to the market growth in recent years.

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