How China Became Africa’s Largest Exporter of Secondhand Clothing: Data Reveals Trends and Opportunities
1. When Did China Become Africa’s Largest Exporter of Secondhand Clothing? In 2021, China officially became the largest exporter of secondhand clothing to Africa. That year, China’s exports of used clothing to Africa reached $624 million , capturing a significant portion of the global secondhand clothing market. According to data, Africa’s total import of secondhand clothing in 2021 amounted to $1.84 billion , with over 40% coming from China. Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania were among the main markets for Chinese secondhand clothing. For example, Kenya’s import value was $248 million , with over 40% of that from China; Ghana’s import value was $211 million , and 48% of those imports came from China. These figures reflect how China has steadily established a dominant position as Africa’s demand for affordable, high-quality secondhand clothing has surged. A trade center in Africa with Chinese signage By DODO 2. 2021 to 2023: Changes in Afr...