<P> In 2007, a new wool suit was developed and sold in Japan that can be washed in the shower, and which dries off ready to wear within hours with no ironing required . The suit was developed using Australian Merino wool, and it enables woven products made from wool, such as suits, trousers, and skirts, to be cleaned using a domestic shower at home . </P> <P> In December 2006, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 2009 to be the International Year of Natural Fibres, so as to raise the profile of wool and other natural fibers . </P> <P> Global wool production is about 2 million tonnes per year, of which 60% goes into apparel . Wool comprises ca 3% of the global textile market, but its value is higher owing to dying and other modifications of the material . Australia is a leading producer of wool which is mostly from Merino sheep but has been eclipsed by China in terms of total weight . New Zealand (2016) is the third - largest producer of wool, and the largest producer of crossbred wool . Breeds such as Lincoln, Romney, Drysdale, and Elliotdale produce coarser fibers, and wool from these sheep is usually used for making carpets . </P> <P> In the United States, Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado have large commercial sheep flocks and their mainstay is the Rambouillet (or French Merino). Also, a thriving home - flock contingent of small - scale farmers raise small hobby flocks of specialty sheep for the hand - spinning market . These small - scale farmers offer a wide selection of fleece . Global woolclip (total amount of wool shorn) 2004 / 2005 </P>

Who produces the most wool in the world