This study analyzes the OTI (overall textile industry) energy efficiency gap between China and the US and measures the longitudinal changes in OTI energy efficiency over time. A breadthwise comparison of the energy efficiency among OTI subsectors indicates that the CFI (chemical fiber industry) is the key sub-sector for improving energy efficiency. This study conducts a quantitative analysis of the influencing factors of energy efficiency of the CFI in China. The energy efficiency of the CFI in Fujian and its influencing factors are compared with that of the national level. Results indicate that the main factors influencing the energy efficiency of CFI in China include economic structure, energy structure, industry scale, and technology, whereas industry concentration has no significant effect. Economic indicators show that the energy efficiency of Fujian's CFI has continued to improve yearly, and is currently above the national average. The low proportion of state-owned and state holding enterprises value, low proportion of coal consumption in the energy structure, industrial scale with a majority of medium- and large-sized enterprises, and advanced technology level are the main reasons for the success of Fujian's CFI. Finally, this study proposes several feasible policies that could be adopted by the authorities concerned. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.