Knitting machine market is projected to grow from USD 5.18 billion in 2024 to USD 10.54 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 7.37%.

Knitting Machine Market Key Takeaways
- Asia Pacific dominated the global market with the largest market share of 41% in 2024.
- North America will expand at the fastest CAGR in the market between 2025 and 2034.
- By type, the weft-knitting machine system segment held the largest market share in 2024.
- By type, the warp-knitting machines segment is anticipated to grow at a remarkable CAGR between 2025 and 2034.
- By knit type, the double-knit segment captured the biggest market share in 2024.
- By knit type, the single knit segment is expected to expand at a notable CAGR over the projected period.
- By mode of operation, the fully automatic segment captured the biggest market share in 2024.
- By mode of operation, the semi-automatic segment is expected to expand at a notable CAGR over the projected period.
- By end-use, the apparel textiles segment generated the major market share in 2024.
- By end-use, the sports textiles segment is expected to grow notably over the projected period.
- By distribution channel, the direct sales segment has held the largest market share in 2024.
- By distribution channel, the indirect sales segment is expected to grow the fastest throughout the forecast period.
Knitting Machine Market Overview
The Knitting Machine Market is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing demand for knitted fabrics across apparel, technical textiles, and home décor applications. Knitting machines, which interlock loops of yarn to create fabrics, play a critical role in the textile industry. These machines can be broadly classified into weft-knitting machines and warp-knitting machines, catering to a variety of end-use industries. The growing popularity of sustainable and innovative textile materials is contributing to the expansion of the knitting machine market.
Technological advancements such as automation, 3D knitting, and computerized systems have further enhanced production efficiency and quality control. Moreover, the increasing adoption of fully automatic knitting machines is reducing labor dependency and ensuring precision in fabric production, driving the market forward.
The rapid rise of e-commerce and fast fashion trends has resulted in higher demand for mass production of knitted garments, prompting manufacturers to invest in high-speed and cost-efficient knitting machines. The market is also experiencing growing interest in smart textiles, functional fabrics, and customized clothing, which is further fueling the adoption of technologically advanced knitting machines.
Market Drivers
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Increasing Demand for Functional and Technical Textiles
The growing use of knitted textiles in sportswear, medical textiles, and industrial applications is driving demand for high-performance knitting machines. Technical textiles with properties such as moisture-wicking, elasticity, and durability have become essential in various sectors, boosting the need for advanced knitting machinery. -
Rise in Automated and Computerized Knitting Machines
The adoption of computerized and automated knitting machines is revolutionizing the industry by enhancing operational efficiency, reducing errors, and enabling the production of intricate designs. Automated machines ensure consistent fabric quality while reducing labor costs, making them increasingly popular among manufacturers. -
Growing Popularity of Fast Fashion and E-Commerce
Fast fashion and e-commerce platforms have transformed the apparel industry by creating high demand for trendy and affordable clothing. To meet the rapidly changing fashion preferences of consumers, textile manufacturers are investing in high-speed knitting machines capable of meeting tight production timelines.
Market Opportunities
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Emergence of Smart Textiles and Wearable Technologies
The growing demand for smart textiles integrated with sensors and conductive fibers presents significant opportunities for knitting machine manufacturers. As the adoption of wearable technologies expands, manufacturers have an opportunity to develop specialized knitting machines for producing high-performance smart textiles. -
Expansion of Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Textiles
With a rising focus on sustainability, the demand for eco-friendly knitted fabrics made from organic and recycled fibers is increasing. Knitting machine manufacturers can tap into this opportunity by offering machines capable of producing sustainable fabrics that meet industry standards. -
Customization and On-Demand Manufacturing Trends
The shift toward on-demand manufacturing and personalized textiles is driving the need for flexible knitting machines that can produce customized designs efficiently. Manufacturers have the opportunity to introduce versatile machines that can cater to changing consumer preferences.
Market Challenges
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High Initial Investment and Maintenance Costs
The capital-intensive nature of knitting machine technology poses a barrier for small and medium-sized textile manufacturers. Additionally, the maintenance and servicing of high-end knitting machines can add to operational costs. -
Skill Shortage and Need for Technical Expertise
Operating advanced knitting machines requires technical expertise and specialized training. The shortage of skilled workers familiar with modern knitting technologies can hinder the adoption of high-performance machines. -
Competition from Low-Cost Alternatives
Low-cost alternatives from emerging markets pose a challenge to established knitting machine manufacturers. Price-sensitive buyers may opt for cheaper alternatives, impacting the sales of premium-quality machines.
Regional Insights
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Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific dominates the knitting machine market due to its strong presence in the textile and garment manufacturing industries. China, India, and Bangladesh are key contributors to market growth, benefiting from large-scale production facilities and a skilled workforce. -
Europe
Europe holds a significant share of the knitting machine market, driven by advancements in textile manufacturing technologies and high demand for technical textiles. Countries such as Germany, Italy, and France are leaders in textile innovation, boosting market growth. -
North America
North America is experiencing moderate growth in the knitting machine market, supported by increasing demand for sustainable and functional textiles. The presence of established apparel brands and a growing focus on automation contribute to market expansion.
Recent Developments
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Launch of 3D Knitting Technologies
Leading manufacturers are introducing 3D knitting technologies that enable the seamless production of complex fabric structures, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste. -
Partnerships for Smart Textile Production
Strategic collaborations between knitting machine manufacturers and smart textile developers are enabling the production of high-performance fabrics with embedded technologies. -
Expansion of Manufacturing Facilities in Asia Pacific
Key market players are expanding their manufacturing footprint in Asia Pacific to leverage the region’s growing textile industry and meet rising demand.
Knitting Machine Market Companies
- Flying Tiger
- Fukuhara
- Hanma group
- Jingwei Textile Machinery
- Lamb
- Lisky
- Mayer and CIE
- Orizio
- Pai Lung
- Santoni
- Shima Seiki
- Stoll
- Tompkins
- Yamato Sewing Machine
- Zentex
Segments Covered in the Report
By Type
- Warp knitting machines
- Raschel warp
- Tricot warp
- Others (crochet, etc.)
- Weft knitting machines
- Circular
- Straight bar
- Others (loop wheel, etc.)
By Knit Type
- Single knit
- Double knit
By Mode of Operation
- Manual
- Semi-automatic
- Fully automatic
By End Use
- Automotive textiles
- Sports textiles
- Apparel textiles
- Home textiles
- Others (footwear industry, etc.)
By Distribution Channel
- Direct sales
- Indirect sales
By Geography
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
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