Enhancing Trade Competitiveness in Indian Sericulture: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Directions in the Global Silk Economy

Abstract

Silk retains global importance as a premium, eco-friendly fibre, with India positioned as the second-largest producer after China. This review examines India’s status within the global silk market, highlighting production and trade patterns, structural strengths, and competitiveness challenges. India’s sericulture sector, characterised by biodiversity and its role in rural livelihoods, faces limitations due to quality inconsistencies, outdated processing technologies, weak branding, and climate-related vulnerabilities. A comparative analysis with China reveals productivity and quality gaps that hinder India’s export competitiveness. However, opportunities exist in adopting advanced technologies, ensuring quality certification, integrating climate-resilient practices, and leveraging digital platforms for direct global market access. Aligning India’s sericulture with rising global demand for sustainable, traceable silk products, coupled with policy support and public-private partnerships, is essential for enhancing market positioning. Strategic interventions focusing on technological modernisation, premium branding, and sustainable practices can transform Indian sericulture into a globally competitive and resilient sector. Strengthening India’s role in the global silk value chain will support rural incomes while meeting international demand for high-quality silk, positioning India as a key player in sustainable silk production and trade.