The Peruvian Trade Office in Los Angeles has highlighted the country’s strong potential to emerge as a key center for organic garment production—a move that could significantly benefit exporters aiming to stand out with innovative, sustainable offerings.

By developing collections made from certified organic cotton or blending it with premium Pima cotton, Peruvian producers could meet the growing demand for health-conscious, eco-friendly apparel in the North American market. This strategy would also increase the value-added component of Peru’s textile exports and open doors to high-growth niches.

Booming Organic Cotton Demand in the U.S.

According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), U.S. sales of organic cotton jumped from $69 million in 2002 to $826 million in 2012—a staggering 900% increase. The trend shows no signs of slowing down. Textile Exchange reported that by 2012, the U.S. organic cotton market was valued at $8.9 billion.

Brands like H&M, Nike, and Puma are increasingly prioritizing organic fibers. Nike, for example, incorporates at least 5% organic cotton in its garments and aims for full sustainability in materials by 2020.

Why Peru?

Despite the U.S. growing its own organic cotton, its quality often falls short. According to Nature USA’s Mike Farid, sourcing from Peru—already one of the world’s top producers of organic and Pima cotton—is essential. Los Angeles-based manufacturers like American Apparel and Nature USA have developed collections such as “sustainable edition” and “bgreen apparel,” both of which require high-quality, certified organic cotton.

Currently ranked as the eighth-largest producer of organic cotton globally, Peru is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend. By leveraging its established strengths in fiber quality and Fair Trade practices, the country has a clear path to leadership in organic fashion manufacturing.