Sericulture in Nepal

While only producing less than 2% of the world’s silk, Nepal is starting to grow its sericulture (or keeping silk worms for silk production) by accepting the invitation to China’s silk road. China in return for this investment has offered Nepal a hefty sum of money so that they can improve the roads from Kathmandu to Tibet through to China so that there is easier access to the country.

The silk worm only eats a certain type of plant known as Mulberry which needs flat or gently sloping land and temperatures around 26 degrees Celsius and about 80% humidity to grow efficiently. Around 38 districts throughout the Central midlands and Mid Hills have the appropriate climate. These fall within the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys as well as the Terai region. One hectare (approx. 2.5 acres) of Mulberry can provide jobs for around 12 years before a new crop must be cultivated. The first year, due to the funds required to start a silk farm, the net return is approximately 49,000 Rs or $490 USD. After that, the average net gain is 69,250 Rs or $690 USD. One kilogram of cocoons sells for around 70 Rs (70 cents USD).

Sericulture is a good opportunity for the people of Nepal since nothing goes to waste. For the silk to beharvested, the cocoon must be boiled to remove the “glue” holding the strands together. This indeed kills the larva inside, but they don’t go to waste as the Nepalese eat them. This trade offers a good chance for employment for different ranges of people because of the many jobs required to harvest and process silk.