Global Viscose Staple Fiber Market By Type(Viscose Filament Yarn, Viscose Staple Fiber), By Application(Spinning Clothing, Home Textile, Medical Textile, Industry Textile), By End-use( Healthcare, Automotive, Other), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The global Viscose Staple Fiber Market size is expected to be worth around USD 25.3 billion by 2033, from USD 15.2 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033.

The viscose staple fiber market involves the global production and use of regenerated fibers made from wood pulp or other plant materials. These fibers are valued for their softness, breathability, and versatility, making them popular in textiles and non-woven fabrics.

In 2023, the global viscose staple fiber market was valued at approximately $8.5 billion, with the textile industry being the largest segment. This sector accounts for about 65% of the market, utilizing viscose fibers for clothing, home textiles, and hygiene products due to their similar qualities to natural fibers like cotton and silk.

The demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable materials is a significant driver for the market. Viscose fibers are increasingly favored for their sustainability compared to synthetic alternatives. Major companies, such as Lenzing AG and Aditya Birla Group, are leading innovations in sustainable production processes to address environmental concerns and meet market demand.

Government regulations play a crucial role in the viscose staple fiber market. The European Union’s REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation ensures that chemicals used in viscose production are assessed for safety. Similarly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees manufacturing processes to reduce emissions and waste. Compliance with these regulations ensures the safety and environmental compliance of viscose products but can increase production costs.

In terms of global trade, the market is significant, with a trade value of approximately $5 billion in 2022. China is a major exporter, supplying around 30% of the world’s viscose staple fiber. The United States and European Union are key importers, reflecting high demand in developed markets. Trade policies and tariffs can impact the market dynamics, influencing prices and availability.

Government initiatives are also supporting the viscose staple fiber sector. The European Union’s Horizon Europe program, with a budget of €95.5 billion for 2021-2027, funds research into sustainable materials. In the U.S., the Department of Energy supports research into alternative fiber technologies. These investments are driving innovation and promoting more sustainable production methods in the viscose staple fiber industry.

Key Takeaways

• The global viscose staple fiber market is expected to rise from USD 15.2 billion in 2023 to USD 25.3 billion by 2033, growing at 5.8% CAGR.
• Asia Pacific dominates with a 51% market share, equivalent to USD 7.8 billion in 2023, driven by strong industrial and textile activity.
• Viscose staple fiber holds a 69.8% market share in 2023 due to its widespread use in textiles and non-woven fabrics.
• Spinning clothing dominates with a 46.7% market share in 2023, driven by high demand for viscose in apparel.
• Healthcare is the largest end-use sector, capturing 55.9% of the market in 2023, highlighting viscose fibers’ importance in medical products.

By Type

In 2023, Viscose Staple Fiber held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 69.8% share. This segment remains the largest due to its widespread use in textiles and non-woven applications. Viscose staple fiber’s softness and versatility make it ideal for products ranging from clothing to hygiene items. It is especially valued in the production of apparel and home textiles where its properties closely mimic natural fibers.

In contrast, Viscose Filament Yarn, while important, occupies a smaller market share. It is used primarily in high-end textiles and applications requiring a continuous filament. The growth in the viscose staple fiber segment is driven by its broader range of applications and increasing demand for eco-friendly materials. As a result, it continues to lead the market, supported by its adaptability and cost-effectiveness in various consumer products.

By Application

In 2023, Spinning Clothing held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 46.7% share. This segment leads due to the high demand for viscose staple fiber in apparel manufacturing. Viscose fibers are favored in clothing for their softness and drape, making them ideal for a wide range of garments, from casual wear to high-fashion items.

Home Textile follows as a significant application, benefiting from viscose staple fiber’s versatility. It is used in products like bed linens, curtains, and upholstery, where its comfort and aesthetic appeal are highly valued. This segment’s growth is supported by increasing consumer preference for high-quality, breathable textiles in home furnishings.

Medical Textile and Industry Textile applications, while smaller, are also important. Medical textiles use viscose fibers for their absorbent properties in items such as bandages and wound dressings. Industry textiles employ viscose fibers in various functional applications, including filters and protective clothing. Each segment contributes to the overall market, with Spinning Clothing leading due to its broad and diverse use.

By End-use

In 2023, Healthcare held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 55.9% share. This sector leads due to the critical use of viscose staple fiber in medical and hygiene products. Viscose fibers are utilized in items like wound dressings, surgical gowns, and diapers, where their absorbency and softness are highly valued.

The Automotive sector follows, where viscose fibers are used in various interior components. These fibers enhance the durability and comfort of automotive textiles, such as seat covers and carpets.

Key Market Segments

By Type

• Viscose Filament Yarn
• Viscose Staple Fiber

By Application

• Spinning Clothing
• Home Textile
• Medical Textile
• Industry Textile

By End-use

• Healthcare
• Automotive
• Other

Driving Factors

Increasing Demand for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Fibers

The primary driving factor for the growth of the viscose staple fiber market is the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials in the textile industry. This trend is largely influenced by a growing consumer preference for environmentally responsible products and stricter regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.

As of 2023, the global textile industry is valued at approximately $1.5 trillion, with sustainability becoming a central focus. Viscose staple fibers, derived from wood pulp and other plant-based materials, are perceived as a more sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers like polyester. This perception is supported by the fact that viscose staple fibers are biodegradable and can be produced with a lower environmental footprint compared to fossil fuel-based fibers.

Government initiatives and regulations have also played a significant role in driving this demand. For example, the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan emphasizes the importance of sustainable textiles and promotes the use of renewable and recyclable materials. This plan aligns with the EU’s goal of achieving a circular economy by 2050, which includes improving the sustainability of textile production processes.

In addition, the European Union’s Horizon Europe program, with a budget of €95.5 billion for 2021-2027, funds research and development in sustainable materials, including viscose staple fibers. This investment supports innovations in production technologies that enhance the environmental performance of viscose fibers.

The global market for eco-friendly textiles is growing rapidly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2023 to 2028. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues and a shift towards greener alternatives. Viscose staple fibers are benefiting from this trend due to their renewable origin and potential for improved environmental sustainability compared to conventional fibers.

Key players in the viscose staple fiber market, such as Lenzing AG and Aditya Birla Group, are responding to this demand by advancing technologies that enhance the sustainability of their products. For instance, Lenzing AG’s TENCEL™ brand of viscose fibers is produced using a closed-loop process that minimizes waste and reduces chemical use, further appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Restraining Factors

Environmental Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

One significant restraining factor for the viscose staple fiber market is the environmental concerns and regulatory challenges associated with its production. Despite its sustainable image, the production of viscose staple fibers involves chemical processes that have raised environmental and health concerns.

The production of viscose fibers typically involves the use of hazardous chemicals such as carbon disulfide and sulfuric acid. These chemicals are used to dissolve cellulose from wood pulp and convert it into fiber. However, the process generates toxic byproducts that can lead to environmental pollution if not properly managed. This has led to increased scrutiny and stricter regulations aimed at mitigating environmental impacts.

For example, the European Union’s REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation imposes stringent requirements on the use of hazardous substances in the production of viscose fibers. Under REACH, manufacturers must comply with safety and environmental standards to minimize the impact of chemicals used in their products. These regulations can increase production costs and require significant investment in waste management and pollution control technologies.

In addition, the global textile industry faces pressure from environmental advocacy groups and consumers demanding greater transparency and sustainability. Reports from organizations like the Ellen MacArthur Foundation highlight that traditional viscose production can lead to deforestation and biodiversity loss due to the large-scale sourcing of wood pulp. The Foundation’s 2022 report notes that over 70% of the world’s viscose production is associated with high environmental impact practices.

Moreover, regulatory bodies in various countries are implementing stricter guidelines for textile manufacturing. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established regulations to control emissions and waste from industrial processes, including viscose fiber production. Compliance with these regulations requires additional investments in cleaner technologies and can affect the market dynamics by increasing production costs.

The challenges associated with environmental impact and regulatory compliance can also affect the market’s growth prospects. Companies involved in viscose staple fiber production must invest in cleaner technologies and sustainable practices to meet regulatory requirements and address environmental concerns. This may include adopting closed-loop production processes, reducing chemical usage, and improving waste management systems.

For instance, Lenzing AG has invested in its eco-friendly production technology and closed-loop process to address these concerns. Their efforts include the Lenzing® Eco Pure technology, which reduces the environmental footprint of viscose production by minimizing water and chemical usage.

Growth Opportunity

Growing Demand for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Textiles

One major growth opportunity for the viscose staple fiber market is the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly textiles. As consumers and industries become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing preference for materials that offer a lower environmental impact compared to traditional fibers.

Viscose staple fiber, made from renewable wood pulp, is positioned as a more sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers such as polyester. This shift towards eco-friendly materials is driven by several factors, including regulatory pressure, consumer preferences, and advancements in production technologies.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in demand for sustainable textiles. According to the Global Sustainability Study by McKinsey & Company, 67% of consumers consider sustainability to be an important factor in their purchasing decisions, and this trend is reflected in the textile industry. The study highlights that 53% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable products, indicating strong market potential for eco-friendly fibers like viscose.

Government initiatives and policies are also supporting this shift. The European Union’s Green Deal, with a total investment of €1 trillion, emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices across various industries, including textiles. The EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan aims to promote the use of sustainable materials and reduce waste, creating a favorable environment for the growth of viscose staple fiber as a more eco-friendly option.

Additionally, advancements in production technology are enhancing the sustainability of viscose staple fibers. Companies such as Lenzing AG have introduced closed-loop production systems that significantly reduce water and chemical consumption. Lenzing’s TENCEL™ branded fibers are produced using a sustainable process that recycles water and solvents, minimizing environmental impact. In 2022, Lenzing reported that 99.8% of the water used in their production process is recycled, highlighting the effectiveness of their sustainability initiatives.

The growth of the global textile market further supports the expansion of viscose staple fiber. The global textile market was valued at approximately $1.5 trillion in 2023, with expectations for continued growth driven by rising consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The increasing adoption of sustainable textiles in various applications, including apparel, home textiles, and industrial fabrics, presents significant opportunities for the viscose staple fiber market.

Furthermore, the rise of innovations in fiber production is contributing to market growth. For instance, advancements in fiber blending techniques are enhancing the performance characteristics of viscose staple fibers, making them more attractive for diverse applications. These innovations are supported by research and development investments from major companies and institutions.

Latest Trends

Shift Towards Circular Economy and Closed-Loop Production

A major trend in the viscose staple fiber market is the shift towards circular economy practices and closed-loop production systems. This trend reflects the industry’s growing emphasis on sustainability and resource efficiency, driven by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures.

In recent years, the textile industry has faced heightened scrutiny regarding its environmental impact, particularly concerning water usage and chemical waste. According to a 2023 report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the global textile industry is responsible for 10% of annual global carbon emissions and is a significant source of water pollution. As a result, there has been a strong push towards adopting more sustainable practices, including closed-loop systems in the production of viscose staple fibers.

Closed-loop production systems are designed to minimize waste and recycle materials back into the production process. For instance, companies like Lenzing AG are leading the way in this trend with their TENCEL™ brand of fibers. Lenzing’s closed-loop process recycles 99.8% of the water used during production, which significantly reduces environmental impact.

The company’s approach aligns with the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan, which aims to make products more sustainable and reduce waste. The EU has committed €1 trillion to this initiative, further promoting the adoption of circular practices in various industries, including textiles.

Another notable example is the collaboration between Sateri, a major viscose producer, and the non-profit organization Canopy. In 2023, Sateri announced its commitment to eliminating deforestation from its supply chain by transitioning to sustainable wood sources and implementing closed-loop production techniques.

This move is part of a broader industry effort to address deforestation, which has been identified as a critical environmental issue by organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). According to the WWF, deforestation contributes to around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in reducing environmental impact.

The shift towards circular economy principles is also supported by consumer demand for more sustainable products. A 2022 survey by Nielsen found that 73% of global consumers are willing to pay more for products from companies committed to sustainability. This growing consumer preference is driving textile manufacturers to adopt closed-loop production systems and improve the sustainability of their products.

Additionally, advancements in technology are facilitating the transition to closed-loop systems. Innovations in fiber recycling technologies, such as those developed by the Swiss company Circular Systems, are enhancing the efficiency of recycling processes and making it easier to incorporate recycled fibers into new products. These technological advancements are supported by research and development investments from both private companies and public institutions.

Regional Analysis

The global Viscose Staple Fiber Market demonstrates diverse regional dynamics, with Asia Pacific emerging as the dominant region, holding a substantial 51% market share valued at USD 7.8 billion in 2023. This dominance is attributed to robust industrial activity, substantial textile manufacturing, and increasing consumer demand for sustainable fabrics in countries such as China and India.

The region benefits from a well-established production infrastructure and competitive manufacturing costs, fostering significant growth in viscose staple fiber applications across the textile and non-textile sectors.

In North America, the market is characterized by steady growth driven by rising demand for eco-friendly textile alternatives and advancements in fiber technology. The United States and Canada are key contributors, with the growing adoption of viscose staple fibers in apparel and home textiles. The market in this region is supported by a shift towards sustainable materials and increased investments in research and development.

Europe presents a mature market landscape, focusing on sustainability and innovation in the textile industry. Countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are leading the adoption of viscose staple fibers, driven by stringent environmental regulations and consumer preferences for sustainable products. The European market is bolstered by high-quality standards and technological advancements.

In the Middle East & Africa, the market is experiencing growth due to expanding textile manufacturing and infrastructure development. Countries like Turkey and South Africa are increasing their use of viscose staple fibers in various applications. Latin America shows moderate growth potential, influenced by ongoing industrialization and textile demand, particularly in Brazil and Mexico.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia & CIS
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • ASEAN
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The Viscose Staple Fiber Market is prominently influenced by several key players, each contributing to its dynamic landscape. Aditya Birla Group, a global leader, is renowned for its extensive production capacity and innovation in viscose staple fibers through its Birla Cellulose brand.

Lenzing AG is another major player, widely recognized for its sustainable fiber solutions and strong market presence. Asia Pacific Rayon Limited and Sateri Holdings Limited are significant contributors, leveraging their extensive manufacturing capabilities and strategic market positioning in the Asia Pacific region.

Other notable companies include Jilin Chemical Fiber Group Company Limited, Kelheim Fibres GmbH, and Tangshan Sanyou Group Xingda Chemical Fibre Co. Ltd, which are key players known for their advanced production technologies and diverse product offerings.

Aoyang Technology, Nanjing Chemical Fiber Company Limited, and Xinjiang Zhongtoi Chemical Co. Ltd also play crucial roles in the market by focusing on innovation and expanding production capacities. Collectively, these companies drive the market forward through technological advancements, strategic expansions, and a commitment to meeting evolving consumer demands for high-quality, sustainable viscose staple fibers.

Market Key Players

• Aditya Birla Group
• Aoyang Technology
• Asia Pacific Rayon Limited
• Birla Cellulose
• Glanzstoff Industries
• Jilin Chemical Fiber Group Company Limited
• Kelheim Fibres GmbH
• Lenzing AG
• Nanjing Chemical Fiber Company Limited
• Nanjing Chemical Fibre Co. Ltd
• Sateri Holdings Limited
• SNIACE Group
• Tangshan Sanyou Group Xingda Chemical Fibre Co. Ltd
• Xinjiang Zhongtoi Chemical Co. Ltd
• Yibin Hiest Fibre Limited Corporation

Recent Developers

Aditya Birla Group stands as a prominent leader in the viscose staple fiber sector, known for its significant contributions and innovations. Under its Birla Cellulose brand, the group reported revenues of approximately USD 2.1 billion in 2023, reflecting its dominant market position.

In 2023, Aoyang Technology generated revenues of around USD 800 million, reflecting its strong market presence.

Report Scope