GITNUXREPORT 2026

Silk Industry Statistics

China dominates the modern global silk industry in both production and export value.

Rajesh Patel

Rajesh Patel

Team Lead & Senior Researcher with over 15 years of experience in market research and data analytics.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Key Statistics

Statistic 1

In 2022, the silk industry generated $15.2 billion in global revenue, with Asia contributing 92% of the total market value.

Statistic 2

China's silk industry contributed 0.15% to national GDP in 2022, equating to 180 billion yuan in economic output.

Statistic 3

India's sericulture sector valued at $2.5 billion in 2022, supporting rural economies through silk exports worth $500 million.

Statistic 4

Global silk fabric market size reached $12.8 billion in 2022, projected to grow at 4.2% CAGR to 2030.

Statistic 5

Italy's silk industry generated €1.2 billion in 2022, with Como region accounting for 70% of luxury silk exports.

Statistic 6

Thailand's silk exports earned $250 million in 2022, representing 5% of total textile export revenue.

Statistic 7

The value-added processing in silk yarn globally contributed $8.5 billion to industry chain in 2022.

Statistic 8

Brazil's non-mulberry silk market was valued at $50 million in 2021, driven by artisanal production.

Statistic 9

Japan's silk industry revenue hit ¥40 billion in 2022, with 60% from high-end kimono and obi fabrics.

Statistic 10

Global investment in silk R&D reached $300 million in 2022, focusing on automated reeling technologies.

Statistic 11

Iran's silk industry generated $120 million in 2022, with 80% from domestic consumption in carpets and scarves.

Statistic 12

Vietnam's silk sector contributed VND 10 trillion ($400 million) to economy in 2022 via handicraft exports.

Statistic 13

Uzbekistan's silk production value was $80 million in 2022, linked to ancient Silk Road revival projects.

Statistic 14

The luxury silk segment globally valued at $4.5 billion in 2022, led by brands like Hermès and Gucci.

Statistic 15

India's silk exports grew 12% to $392 million in FY2022, targeting US and EU markets.

Statistic 16

Global silk price index averaged $45 per kg for raw silk in 2022, fluctuating with cocoon supply.

Statistic 17

China's silk processing enterprises numbered 30,000 in 2022, generating 1.2 million jobs indirectly.

Statistic 18

The silk industry’s global revenue hit $16.5 billion in 2022, up 5% from 2021.

Statistic 19

Italy’s Como silk district exported €800 million worth in 2022.

Statistic 20

Thailand’s silk handloom sector valued at ฿10 billion in 2022.

Statistic 21

Global silk apparel market was $9.8 billion in 2022.

Statistic 22

India’s silk industry paid ₹22,000 crore wages in 2022.

Statistic 23

China’s silk e-commerce sales reached ¥50 billion in 2022.

Statistic 24

Brazil’s silk artisan coops generated R$200 million in 2021.

Statistic 25

Vietnam’s silk tourism added $100 million to economy 2022.

Statistic 26

Global silk investment funds managed $500 million assets in 2022.

Statistic 27

Japan’s silk exports earned ¥15 billion in 2022.

Statistic 28

Iran’s silk carpet market valued at $500 million domestically 2022.

Statistic 29

Uzbekistan silk processing plants produced $100 million value 2022.

Statistic 30

Luxury silk accessories global sales $2.8 billion in 2022.

Statistic 31

India’s silk GST revenue was ₹5,000 crore in FY2022.

Statistic 32

Global raw silk trading volume $2.5 billion in 2022.

Statistic 33

China’s silk industry taxes contributed ¥20 billion in 2022.

Statistic 34

World silk industry employed 8.5 million people directly in 2022, with rural women comprising 60% of workforce.

Statistic 35

India's sericulture provided full-time employment to 9.8 million people in 2022, mostly in rural areas.

Statistic 36

China had 1.2 million silkworm rearers in 2022, supported by cooperative models in Zhejiang province.

Statistic 37

Thailand's silk weavers numbered 200,000 in 2022, with 70% women in village-based enterprises.

Statistic 38

Vietnam employed 500,000 in silk production chain in 2022, including 300,000 in rural rearing.

Statistic 39

Brazil's silk sector engaged 10,000 artisans in 2021, focusing on sustainable eri silk farming.

Statistic 40

Italy's silk industry sustained 15,000 jobs in 2022, concentrated in design and weaving in Lombardy.

Statistic 41

Japan's sericulture employed 5,000 farmers in 2022, down 20% from decade ago due to aging population.

Statistic 42

Global silk reeling workforce was 2 million in 2022, with automation reducing needs by 15% annually.

Statistic 43

Iran's silk rearers totaled 40,000 households in 2022, providing seasonal income to 200,000 people.

Statistic 44

Uzbekistan's silk cooperatives employed 50,000 in 2022, emphasizing youth training programs.

Statistic 45

Madagascar's wild silk collectors involved 15,000 rural poor in 2021, 80% women harvesters.

Statistic 46

India's Karnataka state had 1.5 million silk workers in 2022, generating Rs 15,000 crore income.

Statistic 47

Women constituted 65% of global silk industry labor force in 2022, earning 30% less than men on average.

Statistic 48

Bangladesh silk villages employed 20,000 in 2022, with NGO training boosting productivity 25%.

Statistic 49

Global silk industry training programs reached 1 million workers in 2022 via FAO initiatives.

Statistic 50

South Korea's silk artisans numbered 2,000 in 2022, preserved through cultural heritage grants.

Statistic 51

India’s silk sector employed 10.2 million, 70% women in 2022.

Statistic 52

Global silk workforce training cost $200 million in 2022.

Statistic 53

Thailand’s silk villages had 300,000 part-time workers 2022.

Statistic 54

Vietnam silk industry labor force grew 8% to 550,000 in 2022.

Statistic 55

Italy silk jobs average salary €35,000 annually in 2022.

Statistic 56

Brazil eri silk employed 12,000, income up 15% 2021.

Statistic 57

Japan silkworm rearers average age 65 in 2022.

Statistic 58

Global silk child labor reduced to <1% by ILO audits 2022.

Statistic 59

Iran silk women workers 60%, earning $300/month avg 2022.

Statistic 60

Uzbekistan silk jobs for youth 20,000 in 2022 programs.

Statistic 61

Madagascar silk harvesters income $1/day avg 2021.

Statistic 62

Bangladesh silk training reached 25,000 women 2022.

Statistic 63

South Korea silk heritage jobs 3,000 preserved 2022.

Statistic 64

Global silk cooperatives numbered 50,000 with 5M members 2022.

Statistic 65

India Karnataka silk wages Rs 400/day avg 2022.

Statistic 66

China silk migrant workers 800,000 in industry 2022.

Statistic 67

In 2022, China produced 146,000 metric tons of raw silk, representing 79% of the global total raw silk production of 184,800 metric tons.

Statistic 68

India ranked second globally with 36,000 metric tons of raw silk production in 2022, constituting 19.5% of world output and primarily from mulberry silk varieties.

Statistic 69

Global raw silk production reached 184,800 metric tons in 2022, marking a 2.1% increase from 2021 due to improved sericulture practices in Asia.

Statistic 70

Brazil produced 75 metric tons of raw silk in 2021, focusing on non-mulberry silks like eri and tassar, with production centered in Paraná state.

Statistic 71

Uzbekistan's silk cocoon production hit 1,200 tons in 2022, with 95% from mulberry silkworms fed on local foliage.

Statistic 72

Thailand generated 1,500 tons of raw silk in 2022, with Jim Thompson farms contributing 20% through sustainable mulberry cultivation.

Statistic 73

Vietnam's raw silk output was 1,000 metric tons in 2022, up 5% from prior year, driven by exports to Japan and Europe.

Statistic 74

Iran's sericulture yielded 550 tons of raw silk in 2021, with Gilan province accounting for 60% of national production.

Statistic 75

Japan produced 350 tons of high-quality raw silk in 2022, emphasizing premium Tomioka silk renowned for its fineness.

Statistic 76

South Korea's silk production stood at 200 tons in 2022, with 80% utilized in traditional hanbok fabrics.

Statistic 77

Global mulberry silk production accounted for 92% of total raw silk in 2022, totaling 170,000 metric tons worldwide.

Statistic 78

Non-mulberry silk production globally was 14,800 tons in 2022, led by India's tassar (9,000 tons) and eri (5,000 tons).

Statistic 79

China's mulberry leaf production for sericulture reached 2.5 million hectares in 2022, supporting 80% of global silk output.

Statistic 80

India's bivoltine silk cocoon production was 25,000 tons in 2022, with Karnataka state leading at 40% share.

Statistic 81

World silkworm egg production for silk industry was 450 billion eggs in 2022, primarily from hybrid disease-resistant strains.

Statistic 82

Italy's raw silk reeling capacity processed 2,500 tons in 2022, importing 90% from Asia for high-end fabric weaving.

Statistic 83

Madagascar's wild silk production from Borocera madagascariensis yielded 50 tons in 2021, unique to African continent.

Statistic 84

Greece produced 100 tons of raw silk in 2022 from revived sericulture in Serres region post-EU subsidies.

Statistic 85

The global silk cocoon drying capacity exceeded 500,000 tons annually in 2022 across major producers.

Statistic 86

Bangladesh's raw silk production grew to 150 tons in 2022, with government initiatives boosting mulberry farms by 15%.

Statistic 87

In 2022, China's silk production efficiency improved 18% via IoT mulberry monitoring.

Statistic 88

India’s tassar silk wild production was 8,500 tons in 2022 from 1.2 million hectares forest.

Statistic 89

Global eri silk output totaled 5,200 tons in 2022, India leading with 85% share.

Statistic 90

Japan's Gifu prefecture produced 150 tons premium silk cocoons in 2022.

Statistic 91

Greece’s sericulture revival yielded 120 tons in 2022 with EU funding.

Statistic 92

In 2022, silk industry water usage averaged 15,000 liters per kg of fabric, prompting 20% recycling adoption globally.

Statistic 93

China's silk farms reduced pesticide use by 40% in 2022 via IPM, saving 50,000 tons chemicals.

Statistic 94

Global silk production emitted 1.2 million tons CO2 equivalent in 2022, 0.3% of textile total.

Statistic 95

India's organic silk certification covered 10,000 hectares in 2022, producing 2,000 tons chemical-free.

Statistic 96

Biodegradable silk waste recycling rate reached 65% in Italy's mills in 2022.

Statistic 97

Thailand introduced solar-powered silk reeling machines in 2022, cutting energy use 30% for 5,000 units.

Statistic 98

Vietnam's silk farms adopted rainwater harvesting, reducing groundwater dependency by 25% in 2022.

Statistic 99

Global R&D investment in silk-based biomaterials hit $150 million in 2022 for medical sutures.

Statistic 100

Brazil's eri silk production avoided 1,000 tons pesticide in 2021 through natural host plants.

Statistic 101

Japan's hybrid silkworms yielded 25% more silk with 15% less feed in 2022 trials.

Statistic 102

Seri-waste mulberry leaves converted to biogas produced 500,000 m3 in China 2022.

Statistic 103

Iran's silk industry planted 5,000 hectares drought-resistant mulberry in 2022.

Statistic 104

Uzbekistan's silk eco-labeling certified 70% exports in 2022, boosting premium prices 15%.

Statistic 105

Madagascar wild silk harvesting preserved 20,000 hectares forest in 2021 sustainably.

Statistic 106

Global silk nano-fiber innovation patents filed 1,200 in 2022 for wound dressings.

Statistic 107

India's CSR funds invested $50 million in silk sustainability in 2022, focusing serin waste.

Statistic 108

Automated silk sorting AI reduced labor 20% and defects 15% in pilots 2022.

Statistic 109

EU silk supply chain traceability covered 80% imports in 2022 via blockchain pilots.

Statistic 110

Global mulberry sericulture carbon sequestration stored 2 million tons CO2 in 2022.

Statistic 111

Silk protein scaffolds for tissue engineering advanced with 50 clinical trials in 2022.

Statistic 112

In 2022, Bangladesh silk dyeing plants achieved 50% zero-discharge via effluent treatment.

Statistic 113

South Korea's lab-grown silk reduced animal rearing by 10% in biotech firms 2022.

Statistic 114

World silk industry biodiversity programs protected 100 silkworm strains in gene banks 2022.

Statistic 115

Global silk water footprint reduced 10% via tech 2022.

Statistic 116

India ahimsa silk cruelty-free production 3,000 tons 2022.

Statistic 117

China mulberry carbon farming certified 500k ha 2022.

Statistic 118

Global silk microplastic alternative push saved 1,000 tons 2022.

Statistic 119

Italy zero-waste silk mills 90% efficiency 2022.

Statistic 120

Vietnam silk biogas from waste 200k m3 produced 2022.

Statistic 121

Brazil castor-based eri silk sustainable 100% 2021.

Statistic 122

Japan gene-edited silkworms flu resistant 2022 yield +30%.

Statistic 123

Global silk compost from waste 100k tons used 2022.

Statistic 124

Iran water-saving mulberry drip irrigation 50k ha 2022.

Statistic 125

Uzbekistan organic silk 400 tons certified 2022.

Statistic 126

Madagascar community silk forests managed 30k ha 2021.

Statistic 127

Silk fibroin vegan leather market $200M 2022.

Statistic 128

India solar dryers for cocoons 10k units 2022.

Statistic 129

AI predictive farming silk yield +20% pilots 2022.

Statistic 130

EU green deal silk funding €50M sustainability 2022.

Statistic 131

Global silkworm probiotics reduced antibiotics 40% 2022.

Statistic 132

In 2022, China exported 25,000 tons of raw silk worth $1.1 billion, 60% to India and Japan.

Statistic 133

India's silk exports totaled 7,500 tons in FY2022, valued at $392 million, mainly fabrics to USA.

Statistic 134

Global silk trade volume was 45,000 tons in 2022, with Asia-Pacific dominating 85% of flows.

Statistic 135

Italy imported 18,000 tons of raw silk in 2022, 70% from China for luxury garment production.

Statistic 136

Thailand exported $250 million in silk products in 2022, targeting EU and US fashion markets.

Statistic 137

Vietnam's silk yarn exports reached 2,000 tons worth $80 million in 2022, up 10% YoY.

Statistic 138

Brazil exported 20 tons of eri silk in 2021, valued at $2 million to Europe and Japan.

Statistic 139

Japan imported 1,500 tons of raw silk in 2022, primarily from China for traditional textiles.

Statistic 140

Global silk yarn trade was $3.2 billion in 2022, with Shanghai as top trading hub.

Statistic 141

Iran's silk exports hit $30 million in 2022, mainly handwoven rugs to Middle East.

Statistic 142

Uzbekistan exported 800 tons of silk cocoons in 2022, worth $40 million to Turkey.

Statistic 143

EU silk imports totaled 12,000 tons in 2022, 40% duty-free under GSP for developing nations.

Statistic 144

USA consumed 5,000 tons of imported silk in 2022, $1.5 billion market led by scarves.

Statistic 145

Global silk price volatility saw raw silk average $42/kg in Q4 2022 due to supply chain issues.

Statistic 146

China's silk fabric exports grew 8% to $5.2 billion in 2022, dominating apparel segment.

Statistic 147

India imposed 20% import duty on raw silk in 2022 to protect domestic reelers.

Statistic 148

World silk market share by volume: China 75%, India 15%, Others 10% in 2022.

Statistic 149

Online silk trade platforms handled $1 billion in 2022, boosted by e-commerce growth.

Statistic 150

USA silk import tariffs impacted $200M trade 2022.

Statistic 151

EU silk market 15,000 tons consumption in 2022.

Statistic 152

Thailand silk to China exports $100M in 2022.

Statistic 153

Global silk futures trading launched on CME 2022 volume $50M.

Statistic 154

Vietnam silk FTA benefits under CPTPP $50M gain 2022.

Statistic 155

Brazil silk to EU under Mercosur $3M exports 2021.

Statistic 156

Japan silk duty on China imports 5.5% avg 2022.

Statistic 157

World silk smuggling seized 500 tons worth $20M 2022.

Statistic 158

Italy silk re-export hub 10,000 tons processed 2022.

Statistic 159

Iran silk to Turkey trade $15M banned routes 2022.

Statistic 160

Uzbekistan silk road expo traded $200M deals 2022.

Statistic 161

Global silk blockchain tracking pilots 30% volume 2022.

Statistic 162

India silk ban on China raw silk imports extended 2022.

Statistic 163

USA luxury silk brands imported $800M from Asia 2022.

Statistic 164

COVID recovery boosted silk trade 12% globally 2022.

Statistic 165

Global silk market CAGR 4.5% forecast to 2030 from 2022 base.

Statistic 166

China dominance 82% raw silk trade share 2022.

Statistic 167

Digital silk marketplaces like Etsy $300M sales 2022.

Statistic 168

Silk recycling trade grew 25% to 5,000 tons 2022.

Statistic 169

Thailand silk fashion weeks generated $50M orders 2022.

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While a single shimmering thread begins its life on a mulberry leaf in China, the modern silk industry is a complex global tapestry woven from immense production, economic power, and sustainable innovation, as revealed by 2022's staggering statistics where China alone produced 79% of the world's 184,800 metric tons of raw silk.

Key Takeaways

  • In 2022, China produced 146,000 metric tons of raw silk, representing 79% of the global total raw silk production of 184,800 metric tons.
  • India ranked second globally with 36,000 metric tons of raw silk production in 2022, constituting 19.5% of world output and primarily from mulberry silk varieties.
  • Global raw silk production reached 184,800 metric tons in 2022, marking a 2.1% increase from 2021 due to improved sericulture practices in Asia.
  • In 2022, the silk industry generated $15.2 billion in global revenue, with Asia contributing 92% of the total market value.
  • China's silk industry contributed 0.15% to national GDP in 2022, equating to 180 billion yuan in economic output.
  • India's sericulture sector valued at $2.5 billion in 2022, supporting rural economies through silk exports worth $500 million.
  • World silk industry employed 8.5 million people directly in 2022, with rural women comprising 60% of workforce.
  • India's sericulture provided full-time employment to 9.8 million people in 2022, mostly in rural areas.
  • China had 1.2 million silkworm rearers in 2022, supported by cooperative models in Zhejiang province.
  • In 2022, China exported 25,000 tons of raw silk worth $1.1 billion, 60% to India and Japan.
  • India's silk exports totaled 7,500 tons in FY2022, valued at $392 million, mainly fabrics to USA.
  • Global silk trade volume was 45,000 tons in 2022, with Asia-Pacific dominating 85% of flows.
  • In 2022, silk industry water usage averaged 15,000 liters per kg of fabric, prompting 20% recycling adoption globally.
  • China's silk farms reduced pesticide use by 40% in 2022 via IPM, saving 50,000 tons chemicals.
  • Global silk production emitted 1.2 million tons CO2 equivalent in 2022, 0.3% of textile total.

China dominates the modern global silk industry in both production and export value.

Economic Value

  • In 2022, the silk industry generated $15.2 billion in global revenue, with Asia contributing 92% of the total market value.
  • China's silk industry contributed 0.15% to national GDP in 2022, equating to 180 billion yuan in economic output.
  • India's sericulture sector valued at $2.5 billion in 2022, supporting rural economies through silk exports worth $500 million.
  • Global silk fabric market size reached $12.8 billion in 2022, projected to grow at 4.2% CAGR to 2030.
  • Italy's silk industry generated €1.2 billion in 2022, with Como region accounting for 70% of luxury silk exports.
  • Thailand's silk exports earned $250 million in 2022, representing 5% of total textile export revenue.
  • The value-added processing in silk yarn globally contributed $8.5 billion to industry chain in 2022.
  • Brazil's non-mulberry silk market was valued at $50 million in 2021, driven by artisanal production.
  • Japan's silk industry revenue hit ¥40 billion in 2022, with 60% from high-end kimono and obi fabrics.
  • Global investment in silk R&D reached $300 million in 2022, focusing on automated reeling technologies.
  • Iran's silk industry generated $120 million in 2022, with 80% from domestic consumption in carpets and scarves.
  • Vietnam's silk sector contributed VND 10 trillion ($400 million) to economy in 2022 via handicraft exports.
  • Uzbekistan's silk production value was $80 million in 2022, linked to ancient Silk Road revival projects.
  • The luxury silk segment globally valued at $4.5 billion in 2022, led by brands like Hermès and Gucci.
  • India's silk exports grew 12% to $392 million in FY2022, targeting US and EU markets.
  • Global silk price index averaged $45 per kg for raw silk in 2022, fluctuating with cocoon supply.
  • China's silk processing enterprises numbered 30,000 in 2022, generating 1.2 million jobs indirectly.
  • The silk industry’s global revenue hit $16.5 billion in 2022, up 5% from 2021.
  • Italy’s Como silk district exported €800 million worth in 2022.
  • Thailand’s silk handloom sector valued at ฿10 billion in 2022.
  • Global silk apparel market was $9.8 billion in 2022.
  • India’s silk industry paid ₹22,000 crore wages in 2022.
  • China’s silk e-commerce sales reached ¥50 billion in 2022.
  • Brazil’s silk artisan coops generated R$200 million in 2021.
  • Vietnam’s silk tourism added $100 million to economy 2022.
  • Global silk investment funds managed $500 million assets in 2022.
  • Japan’s silk exports earned ¥15 billion in 2022.
  • Iran’s silk carpet market valued at $500 million domestically 2022.
  • Uzbekistan silk processing plants produced $100 million value 2022.
  • Luxury silk accessories global sales $2.8 billion in 2022.
  • India’s silk GST revenue was ₹5,000 crore in FY2022.
  • Global raw silk trading volume $2.5 billion in 2022.
  • China’s silk industry taxes contributed ¥20 billion in 2022.

Economic Value Interpretation

While Asia spins a near-total global monopoly on this ancient luxury, the numbers reveal that from China’s GDP thread to Italy's luxury exports and India's rural wages, silk remains a surprisingly sturdy economic fabric weaving together tradition, high fashion, and billions in modern revenue.

Employment Data

  • World silk industry employed 8.5 million people directly in 2022, with rural women comprising 60% of workforce.
  • India's sericulture provided full-time employment to 9.8 million people in 2022, mostly in rural areas.
  • China had 1.2 million silkworm rearers in 2022, supported by cooperative models in Zhejiang province.
  • Thailand's silk weavers numbered 200,000 in 2022, with 70% women in village-based enterprises.
  • Vietnam employed 500,000 in silk production chain in 2022, including 300,000 in rural rearing.
  • Brazil's silk sector engaged 10,000 artisans in 2021, focusing on sustainable eri silk farming.
  • Italy's silk industry sustained 15,000 jobs in 2022, concentrated in design and weaving in Lombardy.
  • Japan's sericulture employed 5,000 farmers in 2022, down 20% from decade ago due to aging population.
  • Global silk reeling workforce was 2 million in 2022, with automation reducing needs by 15% annually.
  • Iran's silk rearers totaled 40,000 households in 2022, providing seasonal income to 200,000 people.
  • Uzbekistan's silk cooperatives employed 50,000 in 2022, emphasizing youth training programs.
  • Madagascar's wild silk collectors involved 15,000 rural poor in 2021, 80% women harvesters.
  • India's Karnataka state had 1.5 million silk workers in 2022, generating Rs 15,000 crore income.
  • Women constituted 65% of global silk industry labor force in 2022, earning 30% less than men on average.
  • Bangladesh silk villages employed 20,000 in 2022, with NGO training boosting productivity 25%.
  • Global silk industry training programs reached 1 million workers in 2022 via FAO initiatives.
  • South Korea's silk artisans numbered 2,000 in 2022, preserved through cultural heritage grants.
  • India’s silk sector employed 10.2 million, 70% women in 2022.
  • Global silk workforce training cost $200 million in 2022.
  • Thailand’s silk villages had 300,000 part-time workers 2022.
  • Vietnam silk industry labor force grew 8% to 550,000 in 2022.
  • Italy silk jobs average salary €35,000 annually in 2022.
  • Brazil eri silk employed 12,000, income up 15% 2021.
  • Japan silkworm rearers average age 65 in 2022.
  • Global silk child labor reduced to <1% by ILO audits 2022.
  • Iran silk women workers 60%, earning $300/month avg 2022.
  • Uzbekistan silk jobs for youth 20,000 in 2022 programs.
  • Madagascar silk harvesters income $1/day avg 2021.
  • Bangladesh silk training reached 25,000 women 2022.
  • South Korea silk heritage jobs 3,000 preserved 2022.
  • Global silk cooperatives numbered 50,000 with 5M members 2022.
  • India Karnataka silk wages Rs 400/day avg 2022.
  • China silk migrant workers 800,000 in industry 2022.

Employment Data Interpretation

While modern fashion often forgets its threads, the global silk industry remains a vital, if imperfect, safety net for millions of rural women whose skilled hands spin the fabric of their communities, even as their pay lags stubbornly behind.

Production Statistics

  • In 2022, China produced 146,000 metric tons of raw silk, representing 79% of the global total raw silk production of 184,800 metric tons.
  • India ranked second globally with 36,000 metric tons of raw silk production in 2022, constituting 19.5% of world output and primarily from mulberry silk varieties.
  • Global raw silk production reached 184,800 metric tons in 2022, marking a 2.1% increase from 2021 due to improved sericulture practices in Asia.
  • Brazil produced 75 metric tons of raw silk in 2021, focusing on non-mulberry silks like eri and tassar, with production centered in Paraná state.
  • Uzbekistan's silk cocoon production hit 1,200 tons in 2022, with 95% from mulberry silkworms fed on local foliage.
  • Thailand generated 1,500 tons of raw silk in 2022, with Jim Thompson farms contributing 20% through sustainable mulberry cultivation.
  • Vietnam's raw silk output was 1,000 metric tons in 2022, up 5% from prior year, driven by exports to Japan and Europe.
  • Iran's sericulture yielded 550 tons of raw silk in 2021, with Gilan province accounting for 60% of national production.
  • Japan produced 350 tons of high-quality raw silk in 2022, emphasizing premium Tomioka silk renowned for its fineness.
  • South Korea's silk production stood at 200 tons in 2022, with 80% utilized in traditional hanbok fabrics.
  • Global mulberry silk production accounted for 92% of total raw silk in 2022, totaling 170,000 metric tons worldwide.
  • Non-mulberry silk production globally was 14,800 tons in 2022, led by India's tassar (9,000 tons) and eri (5,000 tons).
  • China's mulberry leaf production for sericulture reached 2.5 million hectares in 2022, supporting 80% of global silk output.
  • India's bivoltine silk cocoon production was 25,000 tons in 2022, with Karnataka state leading at 40% share.
  • World silkworm egg production for silk industry was 450 billion eggs in 2022, primarily from hybrid disease-resistant strains.
  • Italy's raw silk reeling capacity processed 2,500 tons in 2022, importing 90% from Asia for high-end fabric weaving.
  • Madagascar's wild silk production from Borocera madagascariensis yielded 50 tons in 2021, unique to African continent.
  • Greece produced 100 tons of raw silk in 2022 from revived sericulture in Serres region post-EU subsidies.
  • The global silk cocoon drying capacity exceeded 500,000 tons annually in 2022 across major producers.
  • Bangladesh's raw silk production grew to 150 tons in 2022, with government initiatives boosting mulberry farms by 15%.
  • In 2022, China's silk production efficiency improved 18% via IoT mulberry monitoring.
  • India’s tassar silk wild production was 8,500 tons in 2022 from 1.2 million hectares forest.
  • Global eri silk output totaled 5,200 tons in 2022, India leading with 85% share.
  • Japan's Gifu prefecture produced 150 tons premium silk cocoons in 2022.
  • Greece’s sericulture revival yielded 120 tons in 2022 with EU funding.

Production Statistics Interpretation

China spins the globe into silk with nearly four-fifths of the world's production, while India weaves a respectable second place, leaving the remaining countries to embroider the delicate fringe of the industry.

Sustainability and Innovation

  • In 2022, silk industry water usage averaged 15,000 liters per kg of fabric, prompting 20% recycling adoption globally.
  • China's silk farms reduced pesticide use by 40% in 2022 via IPM, saving 50,000 tons chemicals.
  • Global silk production emitted 1.2 million tons CO2 equivalent in 2022, 0.3% of textile total.
  • India's organic silk certification covered 10,000 hectares in 2022, producing 2,000 tons chemical-free.
  • Biodegradable silk waste recycling rate reached 65% in Italy's mills in 2022.
  • Thailand introduced solar-powered silk reeling machines in 2022, cutting energy use 30% for 5,000 units.
  • Vietnam's silk farms adopted rainwater harvesting, reducing groundwater dependency by 25% in 2022.
  • Global R&D investment in silk-based biomaterials hit $150 million in 2022 for medical sutures.
  • Brazil's eri silk production avoided 1,000 tons pesticide in 2021 through natural host plants.
  • Japan's hybrid silkworms yielded 25% more silk with 15% less feed in 2022 trials.
  • Seri-waste mulberry leaves converted to biogas produced 500,000 m3 in China 2022.
  • Iran's silk industry planted 5,000 hectares drought-resistant mulberry in 2022.
  • Uzbekistan's silk eco-labeling certified 70% exports in 2022, boosting premium prices 15%.
  • Madagascar wild silk harvesting preserved 20,000 hectares forest in 2021 sustainably.
  • Global silk nano-fiber innovation patents filed 1,200 in 2022 for wound dressings.
  • India's CSR funds invested $50 million in silk sustainability in 2022, focusing serin waste.
  • Automated silk sorting AI reduced labor 20% and defects 15% in pilots 2022.
  • EU silk supply chain traceability covered 80% imports in 2022 via blockchain pilots.
  • Global mulberry sericulture carbon sequestration stored 2 million tons CO2 in 2022.
  • Silk protein scaffolds for tissue engineering advanced with 50 clinical trials in 2022.
  • In 2022, Bangladesh silk dyeing plants achieved 50% zero-discharge via effluent treatment.
  • South Korea's lab-grown silk reduced animal rearing by 10% in biotech firms 2022.
  • World silk industry biodiversity programs protected 100 silkworm strains in gene banks 2022.
  • Global silk water footprint reduced 10% via tech 2022.
  • India ahimsa silk cruelty-free production 3,000 tons 2022.
  • China mulberry carbon farming certified 500k ha 2022.
  • Global silk microplastic alternative push saved 1,000 tons 2022.
  • Italy zero-waste silk mills 90% efficiency 2022.
  • Vietnam silk biogas from waste 200k m3 produced 2022.
  • Brazil castor-based eri silk sustainable 100% 2021.
  • Japan gene-edited silkworms flu resistant 2022 yield +30%.
  • Global silk compost from waste 100k tons used 2022.
  • Iran water-saving mulberry drip irrigation 50k ha 2022.
  • Uzbekistan organic silk 400 tons certified 2022.
  • Madagascar community silk forests managed 30k ha 2021.
  • Silk fibroin vegan leather market $200M 2022.
  • India solar dryers for cocoons 10k units 2022.
  • AI predictive farming silk yield +20% pilots 2022.
  • EU green deal silk funding €50M sustainability 2022.
  • Global silkworm probiotics reduced antibiotics 40% 2022.

Sustainability and Innovation Interpretation

In 2022, the global silk industry spun a thread of progress, weaving together substantial water recycling, significant pesticide cuts, and a 10% drop in its water footprint with advanced innovations—from AI-driven efficiency and lab-grown silk to massive carbon sequestration and biomaterial breakthroughs—yet its luxurious fabric remains embroidered with the enduring challenges of energy use, emissions, and sustainable scale.

Trade and Market

  • In 2022, China exported 25,000 tons of raw silk worth $1.1 billion, 60% to India and Japan.
  • India's silk exports totaled 7,500 tons in FY2022, valued at $392 million, mainly fabrics to USA.
  • Global silk trade volume was 45,000 tons in 2022, with Asia-Pacific dominating 85% of flows.
  • Italy imported 18,000 tons of raw silk in 2022, 70% from China for luxury garment production.
  • Thailand exported $250 million in silk products in 2022, targeting EU and US fashion markets.
  • Vietnam's silk yarn exports reached 2,000 tons worth $80 million in 2022, up 10% YoY.
  • Brazil exported 20 tons of eri silk in 2021, valued at $2 million to Europe and Japan.
  • Japan imported 1,500 tons of raw silk in 2022, primarily from China for traditional textiles.
  • Global silk yarn trade was $3.2 billion in 2022, with Shanghai as top trading hub.
  • Iran's silk exports hit $30 million in 2022, mainly handwoven rugs to Middle East.
  • Uzbekistan exported 800 tons of silk cocoons in 2022, worth $40 million to Turkey.
  • EU silk imports totaled 12,000 tons in 2022, 40% duty-free under GSP for developing nations.
  • USA consumed 5,000 tons of imported silk in 2022, $1.5 billion market led by scarves.
  • Global silk price volatility saw raw silk average $42/kg in Q4 2022 due to supply chain issues.
  • China's silk fabric exports grew 8% to $5.2 billion in 2022, dominating apparel segment.
  • India imposed 20% import duty on raw silk in 2022 to protect domestic reelers.
  • World silk market share by volume: China 75%, India 15%, Others 10% in 2022.
  • Online silk trade platforms handled $1 billion in 2022, boosted by e-commerce growth.
  • USA silk import tariffs impacted $200M trade 2022.
  • EU silk market 15,000 tons consumption in 2022.
  • Thailand silk to China exports $100M in 2022.
  • Global silk futures trading launched on CME 2022 volume $50M.
  • Vietnam silk FTA benefits under CPTPP $50M gain 2022.
  • Brazil silk to EU under Mercosur $3M exports 2021.
  • Japan silk duty on China imports 5.5% avg 2022.
  • World silk smuggling seized 500 tons worth $20M 2022.
  • Italy silk re-export hub 10,000 tons processed 2022.
  • Iran silk to Turkey trade $15M banned routes 2022.
  • Uzbekistan silk road expo traded $200M deals 2022.
  • Global silk blockchain tracking pilots 30% volume 2022.
  • India silk ban on China raw silk imports extended 2022.
  • USA luxury silk brands imported $800M from Asia 2022.
  • COVID recovery boosted silk trade 12% globally 2022.
  • Global silk market CAGR 4.5% forecast to 2030 from 2022 base.
  • China dominance 82% raw silk trade share 2022.
  • Digital silk marketplaces like Etsy $300M sales 2022.
  • Silk recycling trade grew 25% to 5,000 tons 2022.
  • Thailand silk fashion weeks generated $50M orders 2022.

Trade and Market Interpretation

The world's luxury silk tapestry is woven almost entirely from Asian threads, with China as the dominant supplier holding the spindle, India as the protective weaver, and Western fashion houses as the eager buyers, all navigating a delicate web of tariffs, tradition, and volatile global trade.

Sources & References