Sericulture

Production

World production of raw silk and waste in 2004 was estimated to be 1,25,605 tonnes as against 1,17,042 tonnes in the previous year. China was the largest producer of raw silk and silk waste contributing nearly 82% of global production. India was the second largest producer, producing 16500 tonnes (13.14%) in 2004. Other notable silk producing countries were Uzbekistan, Thailand and Brazil.

Inspite of large production, Indias' share in global silk exports is insignificant. This is mainly because of high domestic demand for raw silk in India, which is around 26,500 tonnes per annum. To bridge the supply gap in raw silk, India has been importing substantial quantity raw silk making it the largest importer and consumer of raw silk. India produces all the four varieties of silk viz. mulberry, eri, tassar and muga. Major raw silk producing states in the country are Karnataka (42.9%), Andhra Pradesh (31.3%), West Bengal (9.2%), Assam(5.0%) and Tamil Nadu (4.3%).

Silk production in Kerala is abysmally low (0.1%) at 8 MT, but the rate is slowing growing.

Last updated: 1-6-2007