European textile industry faces import pressure amid growth in Croatian household textiles

The European textile and clothing industry is facing significant structural challenges, according to a report by EURATEX. Data indicates that less than 13 percent of clothing available in the EU market is produced within the union. The sector is struggling with declining exports and employment, a growing trade deficit where imports (122 billion euros) are double the value of exports (61 billion euros), and intense competition from low-cost e-commerce imports.

Despite these regional pressures, specific segments like household textile production in Croatia have shown growth. Leading Croatian companies, including VIS Promotex, Čateks, and Belina, reported increases in both revenue and profit for 2025. For instance, the top ten companies in the Croatian household textile segment saw revenues rise from 58.5 million to 69.2 million euros, with profits increasing from 6.6 million to 8.7 million euros.