The International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) has published the 2024 edition of its annual wool industry statistics. The document is now available to purchase on the IWTO website, providing essential information for all individuals and organisations involved with the industry. According to IWTO President Klaus Steger, the report “empowers all stakeholders within the wool industry – from sheep farmers to manufacturers and retailers – with the knowledge to work through challenges and capitalize on opportunities.”
Introducing a New Focus
The 2024 statistics document has been compiled with a new focus in mind. As Klaus Steger says in his introduction, the latest edition represents “a new direction in the way the wool industry reports on the wool market. As always, the aim is to meet three core needs: statistics, analysis, and forecasting.”
The report covers the 2022/23 wool growing season, which saw an impressive display of resilience and innovation by all major players in the industry. Of course, sustainability is a major concern for the industry, with consumers being ever more discerning about the products they choose. Wool aligns with these growing demands, and the report demonstrates how the industry is continuing to boost its compliance with it.
Read Next: AWI Unveils Woolmark+ Roadmap
Key Points in the Statistics Report
The wool industry has held steady during 2023. World sheep numbers remained more or less the same compared to the previous year, while greasy wool production increased very slightly (by 1.1%). Although overall apparel fibre production figures are trending slightly higher, there has been no corresponding increase in wool production, which actually dropped slightly compared to the previous year.
In this comprehensive report, readers can expect an in-depth analysis of global sheep numbers and wool production, with detailed insights into the leading countries producing wool both in greasy and clean equivalent weights. The report also covers major Southern Hemisphere exporters and the share of merino wool by micron profile. Additionally, for the first time, it delves into the world’s third-party assurance schemes for wool, providing data on certified wool production across different countries.
The report explores global fibre production and consumption trends, with a focus on luxury animal fibres and the synthetic fibre market. Readers will find valuable information on wool prices in key markets like Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and beyond, including a comparative look at wool prices versus other competitive fibres such as synthetics and cotton. With detailed tables, charts, and data, this report offers a holistic view of the wool industry, helping stakeholders make informed decisions.
These are just a few of the facts presented in the report, which details the performance of the wool industry and markets in the 2022/23 year. Access a digital sample of the report here, or purchase a complete copy here.
As Klaus Steger concludes in his introduction, wool industry stakeholders are encouraged to “utilize this report as a springboard for informed decision-making. Let the data guide your strategies, inspire innovation, and fuel your passion for this remarkable fibre.”
Get Your Copy from IWTO Today
You can download a free sample and/or purchase this edition here now. For more information on the wool industry around the world, take a look at our fact sheets, statistics and guidelines, or visit our website.