Global trade in secondhand clothing (SHC) plays a vital role in promoting textile circularity. By extending the lifespan of garments, it helps reduce the pressure on landfills in exporting countries and provides affordable clothing options in importing countries where new garments are often financially inaccessible for a large majority of the population. This practice aligns with the circular hierarchy, which prioritises reuse over recycling and disposal, and supports inclusive access to clothing in poorer regions.

This is important for livelihood and employment reasons. SHC is indispensable for low-income households in importing countries. In Uganda, where the average daily income is 2.68 USD, new clothing can cost up to six days’ worth of disposable income, while a SHC item (priced at 2.70 USD) equates to 1.56 days. SHC markets also support formal and informal employment, as well as entrepreneurial mobility, with traders often progressing from entry-level roles to positions in higher paid retail and import posts.

The Secondhand Clothes Trade Monitor provides and overview of the imports and exports of trade, and is an essential tool for informing the changing regulatory landscape of trade in secondhand clothing.