CECAEN Rev 3
EN RO
Sections Correlation Guide About the Project Contact
Group 141

Manufacture of knitted and crocheted apparel

This CAEN division covers the manufacture of apparel made by knitting or crocheting, either directly in finished form or from knitted pieces subsequently assembled. Essentially, it includes the production of sweaters, cardigans, T-shirts, stockings, socks and other similar items, regardless of whether they are made of cotton, wool or synthetic fibers.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • ✅ Production of knitted or crocheted apparel Production of sweaters
  • ✅ cardigans
  • ✅ vests
  • ✅ hoodies Production of knitted T-shirts
  • ✅ blouses
  • ✅ dresses Production of knitted underwear (shirts
  • ✅ briefs) Production of socks
  • ✅ stockings
  • ✅ tights Production of knitted gloves Production of knitted sportswear (tracksuits
  • ✅ hoodies) Production of knitted or crocheted children's clothing Production of knitted apparel for men
  • ✅ women and children

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • ❌ Manufacture of woven textile apparel (CAEN code 141) Manufacture of leather apparel (CAEN code 151) Manufacture of workwear and uniforms (CAEN code 1412) Manufacture of hats and caps (CAEN code 1411
  • ❌ if not knitted) Manufacture of non-woven apparel (CAEN code 1396) Repair and maintenance of apparel (CAEN code 9529) Retail sale of apparel (CAEN code 4771)

Subordinate Structure

1410 Manufacture of knitted or crocheted apparel
→

Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

Romania's textile industry has a long tradition, and CAEN division 141, covering the manufacture of knitted or crocheted apparel, is a key component of this sector.

From sweaters and cardigans to socks and underwear, this category encompasses a wide range of products targeting both the domestic and international markets, especially through collaborations with global fashion brands. Macroeconomically, this niche significantly contributes to Romania's exports, with the country being one of the main suppliers of knitted apparel to the European Union, thanks to its skilled workforce and competitive costs.

The evolution of this field has been marked by a shift from production under the lohn system (where Romanian firms worked on behalf of foreign brands) towards an increasing focus on creating own products and vertical integration. However, entrepreneurs active in CAEN 141 face major challenges, such as fluctuations in raw material prices (cotton, wool, synthetic fibers), rising energy and labor costs, and intense competition from Asian manufacturers. Moreover, digitalization and automation of knitting processes are becoming increasingly important to maintain efficiency and quality, while sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials are gaining ground as market differentiators. Despite these obstacles, the sector remains a pillar of the Romanian economy, with growth potential through innovation and adaptation to fashion trends.