In 2023, China’s textiles, wearing apparel, leather, and related products industry employed 202.1 thousand full-time equivalent R&D personnel. The forecast indicates a consistent year-on-year increase in R&D personnel, with projected figures reaching 209.63 thousand in 2024 and 240.66 thousand by 2028. This represents an average annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.4% from 2024 to 2028.

Future trends to watch include:

Increased digital transformation, influencing R&D needs in sustainable and smart textiles.
China’s focus on becoming a leader in innovative textile technologies potentially driving R&D investment.
Potential impacts of environmental policies leading to shifts in R&D priorities.