The European Branded Clothing Association (EBCA) has revealed the major role the branded fashion sector plays in EU Economic growth and trade.

EBCA, which represents more than 75 leading fashion brands across 14 global companies has shared new findings on the EU’s fashion sector by Oxford Economics.

The study shows the fashion sector contributes €331.8bn ($382.85bn)
to the EU’s GDP each year, which is nearly 2% of total EU GDP and fuels jobs, trade, innovation, and prosperity across the continent.

The direct GDP contribution is equivalent to 8.5% of the entire EU retail and trade sector. For every €1 gross value added (GVA) generated by the fashion industry, another €5 GVA was stimulated in other sectors in the EU.

EBCA’s director general Isabelle Maurizi explained the figures show Europe’s branded clothing sector is a vital engine for jobs, innovation, and competitiveness.

She said: “We’re committed to advancing a forward-looking trade agenda that supports sustainability, predictability, and a stronger voice for European brands and consumers in the global economy.”

The findings were revealed at an event that gathered EU policymakers, fashion brand leaders, and sustainability advocates to discuss what’s next for one of Europe’s most creative and globally connected industries.

The study revealed branded clothing makes up 80% of the EU clothing retail market.

Plus, the EU is the largest global importer of apparel, footwear and bags. And second-largest exporter of apparel, footwear, and bags.

The study also underscored the fashion sector’s strong employment footprint with women representing 62.8% of the workforce.

EBCA believes the findings and the event itself highlight the fashion sector’s central role in shaping a more sustainable and more equitable future for branded clothing with responsible business practices and innovation driving growth