China's apparel output is estimated to have reached 1.786 billion pieces in July, which was below the record of 1.805 billion set in June but still reflected a 21.8 percent year-on-year expansion. China's monthly apparel production is expected to accelerate over the next 12 to 24 months as record fixed asset investment in the sector begins to come on line. January through July 2007 fixed asset investment in the apparel, footwear and headwear industry has soared 41.9 percent from the previous year to 40.56 billion yuan or approximately 5.365 billion U.S. dollars.