経済｜日本のシルク危機、養蚕農家減少 / Economy | Japan’s Silk Crisis: Decline in Sericulture Farmers

Summary

In the fiscal year 2025, the number of silk farmers in Japan is expected to drop to 113, marking a record low. This represents a decrease of 21 farmers compared to the previous year, largely due to an aging population leading to an accelerated departure from the industry. The Japan Sericulture Association has expressed concern that if this trend continues, Japan’s silk culture may be lost, and they are calling on consumers to understand and support sericulture.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, I heard that the number of sericulture farmers is decreasing rapidly! Why is that happening?
Log: Well, the main reason is aging. Young people aren’t entering the farming industry, so more and more are leaving it.
Chako: So, does that mean Japan’s silk culture could disappear?
Navi: That’s right. The Japan Sericulture Association has warned that if things continue like this, Japan’s silk could be lost.
Chako: Wow, we need to do something about it! Is there anything we can do to help?
Log: It’s important for consumers to take an interest in sericulture. Specifically, actively using silk products and learning about sericulture would be a good start.
Navi: By increasing consumer understanding, we can contribute to supporting sericulture farmers.

Admin’s Note

The crisis facing Japan’s silk culture may come as a surprise to many. I believe the decline in sericulture farmers is influenced by the broader issue of succession in agriculture. As consumers, we can contribute by choosing silk products and showing interest in sericulture. It’s also important for children, like Chako, to recognize the significance of this culture. I hope that efforts to promote the appeal of sericulture will continue to grow in the future.