Mass production of apparel in Canada began in the mid-19^th century in urban centers, which supplied needed semi-skilled labour, and, at the same time, were the major consumer markets. Today, the Canadian apparel industry produces women's, men's and children's wear, furs, foundation garments and a wide range of knitted apparel such as t-shirts, underwear, gloves, sweaters and hosiery.

Historically, the apparel industry has been highly dependent on women (as high as 94 percent in some apparel sectors) and immigrants (approximately 50 percent of the total workforce). Regionally, Québec accounts for 55 percent of the value of Canada’s apparel production. Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia are also significant contributors to apparel manufacturing.

"As one of Canada's largest manufacturing sectors, the Canadian apparel industry has grown from rather modest beginnings to a reliable supplier of a wide range of consumer, industrial and institutional apparel to meet the needs of both domestic and foreign markets. To remain competitive within the world's increasingly liberalized trading environment, the industry is aggressively innovating to higher value-added products, the latest technologies, and more efficient, flexible and lower-cost manufacturing processes."

— Eileen Melnick McCarthy, Director — Communications, Canadian Apparel Federation.