Retail sales of clothing in the Greek market increased in the first half of 2024, in contrast to exports, which continued their downward trend in 2023, according to data released today by the Hellenic Knitwear Association.

More specifically, retail sales of clothing in the domestic market recorded a 4% increase and reached 1.63 billion euros, from 1.55 billion euros in the corresponding period of 2023. In the first quarter of the year, retail sales recorded an increase of 3.6%, while in the second quarter the increase amounted to 4.5%.

Clothing exports showed a contrasting trend, continuing their downward trend due to the continued reduced demand in international markets. The total export value of the clothing-textile chain in the first half of 2024 amounted to €873 million, compared to €1.05 billion in 2023. 

Exports of clothing decreased by 14.8%, textiles by 22%, and cotton by 14.9%. Imports also fell by 7%: for the whole clothing-textile chain, they amounted to 1.58 billion euros in 2024, compared to 1.71 billion euros in the first half of 2023. The decrease in imports in clothing amounted to 5% and in textiles to 16%.