• The 3rd largest exporter of textile products in the world – more than $16.5 billion in 2006.
• Nearly two-thirds of U.S. textile exports during 2007 went to developing countries. The U.S. textile industry exported to more than 50 countries, with 20 countries buying more than $100 million a year.
• Supplies more than 8,000 different textile products a year to the U.S. military.
• U.S. textile shipments totaled $68.5 billion in 2007.
• Invested more than $9 billion in new plants and equipment from 2001 to 2006.
• Has increased productivity by 50 percent over the last 10 years and ranks second among all industrial sectors in productivity increases.
• In 2007, textile workers on average earned 136% more than clothing store workers ($524 a week vs. $222) and received health care and pension benefits.
National Council of Textile Organizations