A scarf doesn’t need to choose between being beautiful or useful. It can be both. Like a well-cut jacket or a perfectly worn pair of shoes, a scarf occupies that rare space between function and style. It can shield against wind or sun, add modesty to an outfit, or simply tie a look together. It belongs in the same class as the handkerchief—a piece of cloth that says more than its size suggests.
We’ve already explored the long cultural and fashion history of scarves in our blog on scarf styles, materials, and production methods and how they’ve evolved from symbols of status to everyday essentials. But beyond design and heritage lies another critical layer: where and how scarves are made.
Fabric quality, finish, and even the place of origin all shape what that scarf eventually becomes—whether it’s a high-end silk square that whispers luxury or a rugged cotton wrap you toss on every morning.
This guide takes that next step. We examine the key global players in scarf manufacturing, from artisanal workshops in Thailand to industrial print hubs in China, breaking down typical production costs, minimum order quantities, and what to expect when coordinating samples or scaling up. Whether you’re creating your first collection or optimizing an existing one, knowing the landscape can help you build a smarter supply chain.
Where to Produce Scarves: MOQ Benchmarks, Sampling Tips, and Manufacturing Insights by Country
In 2023, scarves accounted for $3.39 billion in global trade, ranking 643rd out of over 1,200 products tracked by OEC. China led exports at $1.06 billion, followed by Italy and France. On the import side, France, the U.S., and Japan topped the list. Though scarves only make up 0.015% of world trade, their enduring appeal and versatility give them outsized importance in both luxury and mass-market fashion.
Understanding where scarves are produced—and why certain regions excel in certain techniques or materials—can help brands align their product goals with the right partners because scarf manufacturing isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Depending on where you produce, you’ll encounter different strengths in materials, craftsmanship, scalability, and cost. Whether you’re launching a high-end silk collection or an affordable line of synthetic prints, understanding the production landscape across major manufacturing countries is key to building a reliable and flexible supply chain.
This section outlines key global production hubs for scarves—China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Portugal, Spain, and Italy—including common price points, MOQ expectations, and how to best manage sampling in each region.
1. China
China remains the dominant force in global scarf exports, valued at over $1.06 billion in 2023, according to OEC.world. With established infrastructure, affordable labor, and a wide variety of materials and print capabilities, it’s the most versatile option for brands across market segments.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Polyester satin scarves: FOB US$0.80–18, MOQ 100 pcs
- Silk square scarves (digital print, hand-rolled hem): FOB US$5–12, MOQ 50 pcs
- Hijab-style chiffon scarves: FOB US$1.60 (10–499 pcs), US$1.40+ (1,000+ pcs), MOQ 10 pcs
- Cotton/linen scarves: FOB US$1.20–2.00, MOQ 10 pcs
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Request digital mock-ups before ordering physical samples
- Confirm sample shipping method (air courier preferred)
- Negotiate sample fees: typically $15–40 for silk, additional charges for screen print setup
- Many suppliers offer “no MOQ” or very low MOQ (~10 pcs) for design testing
2. India
India is renowned for artisanal techniques like block printing and handloom weaving, especially for natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool. It is the world’s second-largest silk producer, with a diverse range of regional specialties.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Branded cotton/plush scarves: MOQ 300 pcs, typically from ISO9001-certified suppliers
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Ask for demo prints across different techniques (block, screen, digital)
- Expect longer sampling timelines: 3–4 weeks for artisanal goods
- Request testing for color fastness and durability
3. Vietnam
While not as prominent as China or India in scarf-specific exports, Vietnam offers strong capabilities in polyester blends, finishing quality, and garment assembly. It’s also becoming known for its compliance with international environmental standards.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Export-quality polyester scarves: FOB US$3–5, carton minimum 48 pcs
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Secure certifications like OEKO-TEX or GOTS where applicable
- Confirm packaging and labeling expectations early
- Request a pilot run of 50–100 pieces to test production quality
4. Thailand
Thai silk production is artisanal in nature, often linked to family-run cooperatives in the Korat Plateau. Though smaller in volume, Thai scarves are prized for their craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Boutique silk scarves: typically US$10–20+ per piece, MOQ 50–200 pcs depending on cooperative
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Virtual or in-person visits help assess authenticity and weave integrity
- Samples are often higher-cost due to artisanal nature
- Ensure pattern reproducibility and discuss potential variances in small-batch production
5. Portugal & Spain
Both countries offer high-end manufacturing for scarves, particularly in wool, cashmere, and organic cotton blends. Their factories cater to premium brands, often certified under European quality and labor standards.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Premium wool/cotton scarves: FOB €20–150+, typical MOQ 100–300 pcs
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Confirm lead time: 6–12 weeks from sampling to delivery
- EU-mandated textile testing (REACH, labeling) is often built into process
- Some factories accept pilot orders starting at 50 pcs for new clients
Sample Coordination Checklist (All Countries)
- Provide a clear tech pack: dimensions, fabric, stitching, hem, print placement
- Always request a physical sample before confirming bulk
- Confirm sample costs and timelines in writing
- Request tests for fabric integrity: shrinkage, color bleed, and pilling
- Approve packaging and labels with sample to avoid QC issues
- Plan for extra time in shipping and customs clearance
6. Italy
Italy is synonymous with luxury textiles, and scarves are no exception. Italian manufacturers are highly sought after for their mastery in fine silks, lightweight wool, modal blends, and, most notably, cashmere—a material often associated with elevated winter collections. While costs are significantly higher, the craftsmanship, heritage value, and brand cachet that come with a “Made in Italy” label are often worth the investment for premium brands.
MOQ Benchmarks:
- Luxury silk or cashmere scarves: FOB €40–200+, MOQ typically 100–200 pcs
- Heritage mills may accept smaller pilot runs, but setup costs can be high
Sample Coordination Tips:
- Allow 4–6 weeks for sample development, especially for woven or jacquard pieces
- Request certification for cashmere purity and fiber origin
- Prioritize design consultations to align expectations—Italian mills often offer in-house R&D for seasonal collections
Whether you’re aiming for hand-loomed silk or digitally printed polyester, where you produce your scarves will influence more than just cost—it shapes quality, design capabilities, lead times, and long-term brand alignment. By understanding the strengths of each manufacturing hub, brands can make smarter sourcing decisions that support their design goals and ethical commitments.
Disclaimer: All cost ranges mentioned are based on industry averages within Deepwear’s sourcing network. Actual pricing may vary depending on the specific factory’s conditions, materials chosen, technical requirements, project specifications, order volume, and country of choice. Brands are encouraged to request detailed quotes and samples before finalizing production.
A Smarter Way to Source Scarves
Whether you’re building a luxury capsule collection in Italian cashmere, experimenting with digital prints in China, or scaling an organic cotton line from India, where and how you produce scarves will shape your brand at every level. Materials matter. So does technique. But just as critical is having the right partner to bridge the gap between design ambition and real-world execution.
At Deepwear, we’re not just connected to factories—we’re embedded in the ecosystems that power them. With offices in 16 key sourcing hubs, including China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Portugal, Spain, and Italy, we offer hands-on guidance across every stage of production. From vetting suppliers and negotiating MOQs to ensuring cashmere authenticity and managing quality assurance onsite, we act as your insider and advocate—so you can focus on growing your brand.
We understand local nuance, global standards, and the unspoken details that can make or break a collection. Whether you’re testing a small batch or scaling up for global retail, Deepwear helps you produce smarter, source responsibly, and deliver with confidence.