The used clothes business in Africa is growing fast. Many people buy second-hand clothes because they are cheaper and still in good condition. Some buyers look for special items, like vintage jackets, branded sportswear, or strong children’s clothes.
Big ports such as Lagos, Mombasa, and Dar es Salaam are entry points for most shipments. From there, the clothes move to wholesale markets and open-air stalls in cities like Accra and Nairobi. This trade gives jobs to importers, truck drivers, and market sellers. In this guide, we will share top used clothes wholesale suppliers in different African countries and explain how each market works.
Overview of the African Used Clothes Market
Every year, Africa imports millions of kilos of used clothes from Europe, North America, and Asia. Once the bales arrive, wholesalers sell them to shop owners or market traders.
The demand is different in each country. In cooler areas, jackets and sweaters sell well. In hot regions, cotton shirts and light dresses are more popular. In South Africa, people often want branded clothes in very good condition. In Tanzania, many buyers prefer cheaper bulk goods.
Import rules also change from country to country. Some places check the quality of every shipment. Others clear goods faster but require bigger orders. Buyers who know these rules can choose used clothes wholesale suppliers that offer the right quality, price, and delivery speed.
West Africa Used Clothes Wholesale Suppliers
1. Benin
Benin represents a very important link in the used clothing trade of West Africa. The Port City of Cotonou serves as the principal entrepot for second-hand garments with consignments mainly from Europe and North America. There is a growing demand for cheap clothing, especially children’s clothes and regular wears.
In Cotonou, used clothes wholesale suppliers keep stocks of different grades including high-grade pieces that look as though they were hardly ever used. One of the advantages of buying in Benin is having a choice among bale sizes which allows traders to buy only the amount they need. Fast deliveries and reliable service are appreciated by local merchants.
You may check on the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Benin wherein they have been known for their wide variety, strong quality, and fast delivery.
2. Guinea
The market for used clothing is not big in Guinea but it is growing. Conakry is an important import location. The most popular products are jeans, t-shirts, dresses, and work clothes. Buyers want strong cheap clothing that suits the hot weather.
Sellers in Conakry, more often than not, use a transparent grading system, making it easy for buyers to know what they are purchasing. Quality control is very stringent and there are quite a number of sellers who ensure stock consistency as well as timely delivery.
To network with reliable wholesalers go through the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Guinea who have been noted for their unflinching support and steady supplies of all categories of used clothes wholesale matching the local market preferences.
3. Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast, and especially Abidjan, is host to one of the very active second-hand clothing markets in all of West Africa. From denim jeans, T-shirts, and jackets that were highly in demand to fashionable casual wears-tunics available at many boutiques and street stalls thriving off of re-selling these imported garments.
Second hand clothes Wholesalers deal with big volumes and are characterized by fast order processing. They stock a wide assortment of clothes that fit all categories of buyers, emphasizing on cheap yet stylish clothing lines.
To get reliable partners in this market, review the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Ivory Coast , presenting you with reliable second hand clothes wholesale and quick delivery.
4. Ghana
Ghana has a strong trade in second-hand clothes with Accra as its main entry point and center of spread. The demand takes care of many types, from casual wears and jeans to dresses. As people look for cheap yet stylish clothes, the market keeps growing.
Suppliers at Accra deal in multiple grades with keen attention to the process of sorting, so buyers get quality items. Reliable shipping and varying order sizes make small and large traders turn to Ghana’s wholesalers.
To know more about such leading businesses in the area, one may look at the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Ghana that offer a very strong value with fast dependable service.
5. Togo
Togo’s used clothes market is developing, with Lomé, the capital, acting as the primary entry point for second-hand clothing imports. The market is growing as local buyers increasingly turn to affordable clothing options. Popular items include T-shirts, jeans, and casual wear.
Second hand clothes wholesalers in Lomé typically offer used clothes in different grades, with a focus on affordable bulk items. Many suppliers offer flexible bale sizes, making it easier for local businesses to manage their stock. Quick delivery and consistent service are important factors that make suppliers in Togo reliable partners.
If you are looking for top used clothes suppliers in Togo, check out the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Togo, who provide quality used clothes in bulk with efficient service.
6. Nigeria
Nigeria is one of the largest and most important markets for used clothes in West Africa, with Lagos being the key commercial hub. The demand for second-hand clothing, especially jeans, T-shirts, and children’s clothing, is extremely high in Nigeria. The country has a large, young population that values affordability and variety in fashion.
Used clothes Wholesale supplier in Lagos offer a range of second-hand clothes, focusing on high-quality items for both casual wear and special occasions. Suppliers are known for their large volumes and fast deliveries. Given the size of the Nigerian market, wholesalers often provide tailored solutions to meet specific local demands.
For a list of top suppliers in Nigeria, be sure to visit the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Nigeria, where you can find trusted companies known for their reliable service and competitive pricing of used clothes for sale.
7. Liberia
Liberia’s used clothes market is not very big, but it is very active. Most of the trade happens in Monrovia, the capital city. Big bales of second-hand clothes arrive at the Freeport of Monrovia from the United States and Europe. People like buying these clothes because they are cheaper than new ones and often last longer. Common items include shirts, jeans, dresses, and shoes.
Local used clothes wholesale suppliers in Liberia know how to bring in clothes quickly and pass customs without problems. Some suppliers sort the clothes by quality before selling them, so shop owners can choose the best items for their customers. This makes it easier for small shops and market sellers to get the stock they need.
If you want good partners in this market, you can explore the top used clothes factories in Liberia. They offer strong and good-quality clothes at fair prices, and they can work with both big and small orders.
8. Mauritania
In Mauritania, the used clothes trade is busiest in Nouakchott, the capital. The weather is hot most of the year, so people like light and loose clothes. Most goods come by ship from Europe, and some also arrive by road from Senegal and Morocco. Popular items include T-shirts, dresses, and lightweight trousers.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Mauritania are close to important shipping routes, so they can get clothes faster. Many work directly with exporters, which helps them bring in good-quality clothes at low prices. Some focus on summer wear and children’s clothes, which sell well in local markets.
To find trusted sellers here, you can see our top 5 used clothes suppliers in Mauritania. They are known for steady supply, fair deals, and clothes that are comfortable in hot weather.
East Africa Used Clothes Wholesale Suppliers
1. Kenya
Kenya has one of the biggest used clothes markets in East Africa. People here call second-hand clothes “mitumba,” and they are sold in almost every town. Nairobi and Mombasa are the main trade centers. Mombasa port is very important because most shipments arrive there from Europe, the United States, and Asia. Popular items include shirts, jeans, jackets, and shoes.
Local suppliers in Kenya are well connected to shipping companies, so they can get fresh stock quickly. Many also sort clothes by quality, making it easy for buyers to choose between premium and budget options. Wholesale buyers like that suppliers can handle both small and large orders.
You can check the top 3 used clothes suppliers in Kenya to find trusted partners who offer good quality and fair prices.
2. Uganda
Uganda’s used clothes market is growing fast, with Kampala as the main center. Other towns like Arua also have busy markets. Clothes are brought in through Kenya and sometimes directly from overseas. They are sold in open-air markets, shops, and street stalls. People prefer second-hand clothes because they are cheaper and often stronger than new low-cost clothes.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Uganda understand local tastes and know which items sell best, such as T-shirts, dresses, and children’s wear. Many work closely with traders from Kenya, so they can bring in stock regularly and keep prices stable.
If you want to start trading here, you can see our top 5 used clothes suppliers in Uganda for reliable and friendly used clothes wholesale options.
3. Tanzania
Tanzania has a strong second-hand clothing market, with Dar es Salaam as the main port and trading city. Clothes come from Europe, North America, and sometimes from Dubai. They are sold in busy markets and small shops across the country. Jackets, shirts, skirts, and sportswear are among the most popular items.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Tanzania have the advantage of easy access to sea transport, so they can keep a steady supply. Some suppliers also specialize in certain categories, like school uniforms or sports clothing, which helps retailers target specific customers.
You can explore the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Tanzania to connect with second hand clothes wholesalers who know the market well and offer fair prices.
4. Ethiopia
Kenya has one of the biggest used clothes markets in East Africa. People here call second-hand clothes “mitumba,” and they are sold in almost every town. Nairobi and Mombasa are the main trade centers. Mombasa port is very important because most shipments arrive there from Europe, the United States, and Asia. Popular items include shirts, jeans, jackets, and shoes.
Local suppliers in Kenya are well connected to shipping companies, so they can get fresh stock quickly. Many also sort clothes by quality, making it easy for buyers to choose between premium and budget options. Wholesale buyers like that suppliers can handle both small and large orders.
You can check the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Ethiopia to find trusted partners who offer good quality and fair prices.
5. Somalia
Somalia’s used clothes market is strongest in port cities like Mogadishu, Kismayo, and Bosaso. Goods usually arrive by ship from the United Arab Emirates, Europe, and sometimes North America. Because the climate is hot, light clothing such as T-shirts, dresses, and lightweight trousers sells well all year round.
Suppliers in Somalia have the advantage of direct access to the sea, which helps keep delivery times short. Many also work with traders from neighboring countries, making it easy to get a steady flow of goods. Local wholesalers often sell mixed bales, giving small retailers a variety of items to sell.
You can see our top 5 used clothes suppliers in Somalia to find trusted partners in this second hand clothes wholesale market.
6. Rwanda
Rwanda’s used clothes trade is smaller than in some East African countries, but it is well organized. Most goods come from Mombasa port in Kenya or Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and are then brought by road. Kigali, the capital, is the main trading hub. Items like shirts, jackets, and children’s wear are popular in the cooler highland climate.
Suppliers in Rwanda focus on quality, as customers prefer clothes that last longer. Many wholesalers here are good at sorting stock and providing clean, ready-to-sell clothes. This helps shop owners save time and attract more buyers.
You can explore the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Rwanda for reliable used clothes sellers who understand local fashion needs and market trends.
7. Madagascar
Madagascar has a strong demand for second-hand clothing, especially in big cities like Antananarivo. Many people choose used clothes because they are cheaper and often better quality than some new clothes sold locally. Most imports come by sea from Europe and Asia, arriving through the country’s main ports. Popular items include T-shirts, jeans, dresses, and light jackets for cooler evenings.
Second hand clothes suppliers in Madagascar often sell clothes already sorted by type and size, making it easy for market sellers to stock exactly what they need. Some also focus on children’s clothes, which are always in high demand. Because the country is an island, suppliers with strong shipping connections have an advantage in keeping prices stable.
You can check the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Madagascar to find trusted sellers with steady supply and good-quality stock.
8. Mauritius
Mauritius has a smaller used clothes market compared to other African countries, but it is well known for focusing on quality. Most goods come by sea from Europe, and some are imported from nearby African countries. The main markets are in Port Louis and surrounding towns. People often look for stylish, good-condition clothes such as dresses, shirts, and casual wear suitable for the tropical climate.
Suppliers in Mauritius are experienced in sorting and cleaning clothes before selling, so items are ready for display. They also tend to work closely with retailers, offering small and flexible orders. This is helpful for shop owners who want to test new products without buying too much stock.
You can see our top 5 used clothes suppliers in Mauritius for reliable used clothes wholesale partners who offer both good quality and competitive prices.
Southern Africa Used Clothes Wholesale Suppliers
1. South Africa
South Africa has one of the biggest and most diverse used clothes markets in the region. The trade is active in major cities, each with its own style. For example, suppliers in Durban focus on lightweight clothing suited for the city’s warm climate, while suppliers in Johannesburg and suppliers in Cape Town meet demand for both warm jackets and summer wear. In Pretoria’s used clothes market, buyers often look for a balanced mix of formal and casual wear.
Most second-hand clothes arrive by sea, mainly through Durban and Cape Town ports, coming from Europe, North America, and Asia. Suppliers in these hubs often handle large volumes and can offer both sorted and unsorted bales. Many also have warehouses where buyers can view and choose stock before purchase, giving retailers a clear picture of what they are getting.
A major advantage of these city-based suppliers is their strong logistics network. They can deliver goods quickly across South Africa, and many also export to neighboring countries like Lesotho, Eswatini, and Botswana.
2. Zambia
Zambia’s used clothes market is growing quickly, with Lusaka as the main center and cities like Kitwe, Ndola, and Livingstone also playing key roles. Many clothes arrive through ports in Tanzania or Mozambique, then travel by road to Zambia. Because the country is surrounded by many neighbors, it also acts as a re-export hub to places like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
Popular items in Zambia include shirts, dresses, jackets, and sportswear. The demand is strong both in cities and rural areas. Local suppliers are skilled at sorting clothes by grade and packing them for easy resale. They often offer smaller bale sizes, which helps market vendors with limited budgets.
Zambia’s location gives its suppliers a transport advantage, as they can move goods across borders quickly. This makes it easier for wholesalers to supply not only local markets but also traders in nearby countries. To find good partners in this market, you can see the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Zambia for reliable sources with steady supply.
3. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has a steady demand for used clothes, especially in big cities like Harare and Bulawayo. Clothes usually come from Mozambique, South Africa, or Zambia, and are sold in both open-air markets and small shops. People often choose used clothes because they are more affordable and usually last longer than some new low-cost options.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Zimbabwe often have good connections with regional traders, which helps them keep a constant flow of goods. Some focus on specific products, like school uniforms, jeans, or winter jackets, which sell well during cooler months.
You can explore the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Zimbabwe to connect with sellers who understand local needs and offer fair prices.
4. Angola
Angola’s used clothes market is growing, especially in coastal cities like Luanda and Namibe. Most goods arrive by ship from Europe, the United States, and Brazil. People prefer second-hand clothes because they are affordable and often better quality than new low-cost options. Common items include T-shirts, jeans, skirts, and sportswear.
Local suppliers in Angola benefit from having direct access to the sea, which makes shipping faster and cheaper. Many also have warehouses where clothes are sorted before sale, so buyers can choose the styles and sizes they need. Some suppliers even focus on children’s clothes or workwear, which sell well in local markets.
If you are looking for trusted sellers in this country, you can check the top 3 used clothes suppliers in Angola for reliable and experienced second hand clothes wholesale partners.
5. Malawi
Malawi has a high demand for used clothes in both urban and rural markets. Most goods come through ports in Mozambique and Tanzania, then travel by road to Malawi. Lilongwe and Blantyre are the main trading cities, but markets in smaller towns also sell large amounts of second-hand clothing.
Suppliers in Malawi often work with mixed bales, giving market vendors a variety of clothing types in one package. This is useful for small traders who want to sell different products without buying large quantities. Popular items include shirts, dresses, sweaters, and light jackets.
You can see the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Malawi to find dependable sellers with steady stock of second hand clothes in bulk and fair prices.
6. Lesotho
Lesotho’s used clothes market is smaller than in neighboring South Africa, but it is active and important for local communities. Many goods come from South Africa by road, making transport quick and affordable. Markets in Maseru, the capital, sell everything from jeans and T-shirts to warm jackets for the colder months.
Suppliers in Lesotho often have strong ties with South African wholesalers, so they can bring in stock regularly. This keeps prices stable and ensures a steady supply for local traders.
If you want to work with sellers in this country, you can explore the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Lesotho for trusted options.
7. Eswatini
Eswatini, also known as Swaziland, has a steady second-hand clothing market, with most goods coming from South Africa and Mozambique. Mbabane and Manzini are the busiest trading areas, with markets full of affordable clothes for all ages.
Local suppliers benefit from Eswatini’s close location to major trade routes. They can bring in goods quickly and at lower transport costs. Many also work closely with retailers to supply the right mix of clothing for local demand.
You can check the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Swaziland to connect with reliable sellers who understand the local market.
Central Africa Used Clothes Wholesale Suppliers
1. Cameroon
Cameroon has a strong used clothes market, with Douala as the main trading city. Douala’s port is the largest in the country, and most second-hand clothes arrive here from Europe, North America, and Asia. Popular items include shirts, jeans, jackets, and sportswear. Many goods are sent from Douala to other cities like Yaoundé and Bafoussam.
Second hand clothes suppliers in Cameroon often sort clothes by quality, making it easier for market vendors to choose stock that matches their customers’ budgets. Some also sell in smaller bale sizes, which is good for small traders. The country’s location allows quick trade with neighboring Central and West African countries.
If you want trusted suppliers in this market, you can check the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Doulala for reliable partners with steady stock.
2. Gabon
Gabon’s used clothes trade is centered in Libreville, the capital city. Most goods come by ship from Europe and sometimes from the United States. People like second-hand clothes because they are affordable and often better quality than new low-cost products. Common items include light shirts, dresses, and trousers suited for the warm climate.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Gabon usually work with smaller volumes, which makes it easier for local traders to buy exactly what they need. Some suppliers also clean and prepare clothes before selling, so items are ready for display.
You can see the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Libreville to find sellers who offer good quality and fair prices.
3. Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo has a large demand for used clothes, especially in Matadi. Matadi is the main seaport, where most goods arrive from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. From there, clothes are transported to other parts of the country, including inland cities like Lubumbashi and Kisangani.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in DRC have the advantage of reaching a wide market. Many sell mixed bales with a variety of clothes, which is popular among small shop owners. Some suppliers also focus on durable items like jeans and jackets, which sell well in both urban and rural areas.
You can explore thetop 5 used clothes suppliers in the Democratic Republic of Matadi to connect with partners who understand this large and busy market.
North Africa Used Clothes Wholesale Suppliers
1. Tunisia
Tunisia’s used clothes market is active, with Sfax as one of the main trading cities. Goods usually arrive by ship from Europe, especially France and Italy. Light clothing, dresses, shirts, and casual wear are popular because of the warm climate. The government also supports recycling and re-use, which helps the second-hand clothing business grow.
Used clothes wholesale suppliers in Tunisia often offer sorted clothes in good condition, making it easy for retailers to sell directly without extra work. Some suppliers also export to neighboring countries like Libya and Algeria, which makes them experienced in regional trade.
You can check the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Tunisia to find partners who can provide steady supply and quality used clothes in bulk.
2. Libya
Libya’s second-hand clothing trade is centered in port cities like Misrata and Benghazi. Most goods come from Europe and the Middle East. Because of the hot climate, lightweight and breathable clothes are in high demand, especially shirts, dresses, and traditional-style garments.
Used clothes wholesale uppliers in Libya have the advantage of easy sea access, which helps keep transport costs low. Many also offer mixed bales so small traders can sell a variety of products. Some suppliers specialize in clothing for men or children, depending on market needs.
You can see the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Misrata or top 5 used clothes suppliers in Benghazi to find trusted sellers with experience in local and regional trade.
3. Sudan
Sudan has a large and busy used clothes market, especially in Khartoum and other major cities. Goods usually arrive through Port Sudan from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Affordable clothing is very popular, and demand is steady throughout the year.
Suppliers in Sudan often have strong links to regional markets in Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, which helps them keep a wide trading network. Many also sort clothes by category, such as casual wear, formal wear, or children’s clothing, so retailers can choose the stock they need.
You can explore the top 5 used clothes suppliers in Sudan to connect with second hand clothes sellers who understand the market and offer fair prices.
Conclusion
Africa has a fast-growing market for used clothes, with each country offering its own opportunities and challenges. From the busy ports of Mombasa, Durban, and Douala to the smaller but active markets in Lesotho, Rwanda, and Mauritius, there are many ways for wholesalers to connect with buyers. Climate, culture, and local demand all shape which products sell best, so understanding each market is the key to success.
Working with trusted used clothes wholesale suppliers can make a big difference. The right partner will offer good-quality clothes, fair prices, and a steady supply. Many suppliers across Africa also provide sorted stock, flexible order sizes, and reliable transport options, making it easier for both big wholesalers and small shop owners to do business.
If you are ready to explore the market, check our country guides to see the top used clothes suppliers in each location. This will help you compare options, find the best deals, and build strong business relationships in one of the world’s most promising second-hand clothing markets.
