Singapore's local used-clothing collection volume continues to climb. Currently, 70 metric tonnes of used garments are sent from collection bins to Malaysia for processing each week, double the amount from two years ago. These clothes ultimately arrive at a facility in Port Klang, where about 300 employees sort them. After sorting, garments suitable for resale are compressed and baled for export to overseas markets.

Zaki, business manager at Malaysian clothing recycling company Life Line Clothing, said that on-site operations reveal that lightweight summer clothing, children's wear, and brand-name garments in good condition are the easiest to find buyers for. There are also cases where some clothes have never been worn and still have tags attached, reflecting a high incidence of impulse buying among consumers.

Chong Liwei, founder of Singapore environmental group Cool Products, reminded that the convenience of online shopping leads some consumers to buy large quantities of clothing, and advised them to think more about actual needs before purchasing to reduce unnecessary waste of resources.

Second-Hand Apparel Retail Market Expands in Tandem

It is worth noting that Singapore's domestic second-hand apparel retail sector is also showing growth. Interviewed operators said their companies' revenue is growing by about 30 to 40 percent annually. Xu Manling, supply expansion manager at local retailer Refash, analyzed that one of the main drivers of demand is Gen Z young consumers, who tend to seek unique and easily accessible clothing in physical stores. At the same time, value-conscious consumers such as housewives also form an important support base.

Overseas operators optimistic about the local market's prospects are accelerating their expansion. Japanese second-hand clothing chain 2nd Street entered Singapore last year and currently operates three stores locally, with plans for further expansion.

Industry observers note that as consumers pay more attention to price, quality, and individuality, second-hand clothing is gradually moving from a marginal choice toward a mainstream consumption pattern.

Source: Used clothing collection doubles in two years; local second-hand apparel market continues to grow · Originally published 2026-08-22