Industry & Policy Updates (June 2026)

Global Research: 96% of Second-Hand Clothing is Rewardable

A major field study released in April 2026 by the SMEP Programme (in partnership with UNCTAD) provides critical, primary-source data that directly refutes the "waste dumping" narrative. Based on a sample of over 244,000 garments, the study proves that the vast majority of imported second-hand clothing is rewearable and high-value, not waste.

SMEP programme+ 1

• Key Findings: Waste levels are consistently below 1.5% in imported bales.

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• Report Title: Trade in Secondhand Clothing: Analysis of markets in Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania and the United States of America

  SMEP programme

  
  

• Authors: Jennifer Wang and Richard Wang

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• Link: Read the full report (via SMEP/UNCTAD)