Profile of the Textile and Clothing Industry in Lithuania

The textile and clothing sector is one of the most important industries in Lithuania. The sector has prospered since the country gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991. As a result, it is now one of Lithuania’s most important industries. In 2005 it accounted for 26% of employment in the manufacturing sector, generated 8.3% of the country’s GDP and contributed 9.2% of the nation’s exports. Moreover, foreign investment in textiles and clothing has been growing. Lithuania aims to become Europe’s top supplier of women’s woven outerwear—including skirts, blouses, coats, jackets and dresses—by 2010. This is already the country’s strongest industry sub-sector, and accounts for 90% of all production. Major textile and clothing companies in Lithuania include Audejas, which is the largest producer of upholstery in the Baltic States. Garlita is one of the biggest fully-fashioned knitwear companies in Lithuania and is also one of the most technologically advanced. It exports 80% of its output to 16 countries, while the remaining 20% is produced mainly for the Lithuanian military. Ivega is the largest embroidery company. Its products range from embroidered and woven badges to appliqué making. Kauno Baltija is a leading clothing company and employs 800 people. Pakita produces 80 tons of knitted fabric a month for the domestic market and for the export market. Sparta is one of the oldest and largest textile companies in Lithuania. It produces socks and knitwear, under its own domestic label and under contract for export. Utenos Trikotazas produces 15 mn knitwear garments a year, 90% of which is exported.