Are China’s apparel imports a growing opportunity for Asian developing countries (ADCs)?

Purpose This study aims to examine patterns of apparel imports from Asian Developing Countries (ADCs) to China, focusing on similarities and differences between ADCs’ apparel and domestically produced apparel in China at the product level. Design/methodology/approach A logistic regression analysis was performed on 8,000 apparel Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) sold in China’s retail market from January 2023 to December 2024, including their detailed product features, assortments and market pricing information. Findings ADCs’ apparel imports into China were statistically more likely to be priced below the market average, to consist of staple fashion items that need replenishment, to offer fewer color and size options and to be less diverse in fiber content. However, no statistical evidence suggested that ADCs’ products were less varied in product categories than those domestically made. In addition, ADCs’ products were statistically more likely to use recycled and organic textile materials. Research limitations/implications The findings suggest that China has become and could continue to expand its role as a growing export opportunity for many ADCs. The findings also revealed that ADCs as a whole have developed a more competitive and enhanced apparel production capacity than previous studies suggested. Originality/value The study’s findings generated important new knowledge about the emerging patterns of China’s apparel imports from ADCs and enhanced our understanding of the evolving competitiveness of ADCs and China as apparel production bases beyond traditional import markets like the United States and Europe.