CECAEN Rev 3
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Group 139

Manufacture of knitted and crocheted fabrics

This CAEN division refers to the manufacture of textile materials by knitting or crocheting, i.e., obtaining elastic and flexible textile fabrics, mainly used for making T-shirts, blouses, underwear, sportswear and technical articles. Essentially, it involves the production of knitted fabrics, which differ from classic woven fabrics by the way the yarns are joined, offering elasticity and comfort.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • ✅ Production of knitted or crocheted textile materials Manufacture of knitted fabrics (including jersey
  • ✅ plush) Production of fabrics for clothing
  • ✅ bed linen and technical articles Manufacture of fabrics from cotton
  • ✅ wool
  • ✅ synthetic fibers by knitting Circular and flat knitting for garments

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • ❌ Manufacture of woven textile fabrics (included in division 131)
  • ❌ Manufacture of finished clothing articles (included in 141)
  • ❌ Production of nonwovens (included in 1396)
  • ❌ Manufacture of lace and embroidery (included in 1399)

Subordinate Structure

1391 Manufacture of knitted and crocheted fabrics
→
1392 Manufacture of made-up textile articles (excluding apparel and underwear)
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1393 Manufacture of carpets and rugs
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1394 Manufacture of cordage, rope, twine and netting
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1395 Manufacture of non-woven textiles and articles made from these, except for apparel
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1396 Manufacture of technical and industrial articles from textiles
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1399 Manufacture of other textile articles n.e.c.
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Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

Manufacture of knitted and crocheted fabrics

Manufacture of knitted and crocheted fabrics, coded CAEN 139, represents an essential link in the textile chain in Romania, with a well-rooted tradition and significant development potential. This economic activity involves the transformation of textile yarns - whether natural, such as cotton and wool, or synthetic, such as polyester or nylon - into knitted fabrics characterized by elasticity, breathability and increased comfort. The resulting products are subsequently used in the manufacture of casual clothing, sportswear, underwear, but also in technical fields such as filtration or insulation.

The macroeconomic importance of this niche is reflected by its contribution to Romania's textile exports, which place the country among the main European suppliers of knitted fabrics. Although international competition, especially from Asia, is fierce, Romanian manufacturers have managed to maintain their relevance through quality, flexibility and the ability to deliver small quantities in short lead times. In addition, proximity to Western European markets and EU membership offer logistical and commercial advantages.

The evolution of this sector has been marked by profound transformations after 1990, when former state-owned textile combines were privatized or disappeared, and their place was taken by dynamic SMEs specialized in precise niches. In recent years, digitalization and the growing demand for sustainable materials have opened up new opportunities but also challenges. Entrepreneurs operating in CAEN 139 face fluctuations in raw material prices, rising energy costs and an increasingly scarce labor force. However, investments in modern technology, such as electronic knitting machines and process automation, can ensure long-term competitiveness. Also, orienting towards eco-friendly products and certifications such as OEKO-TEX can open doors to premium markets. Overall, the manufacture of knitted fabrics remains a strategic activity for the Romanian textile industry, which can grow through innovation and adaptation to global demands.