Title:
Silk Road Reimagined: Export Enhancement Strategies for Silk Industries in Developing Countries

Authors:
Nafiz Hossen, Dr. Zheng Zhe, China

Abstract:

The silk industry can play an important role in the economies of developing countries in diversifying exports, increasing rural income opportunities and creating eco-friendly textiles, especially in the South Asian region.  Although the historical importance of this industry has been established through the ancient Silk Road, it has not yet achieved the desired competitive position in the global market.  This study analyzes the effective export expansion strategies of the silk industry in developing countries with special emphasis on the context of Bangladesh and South Asia. The impact of production technology, human resource efficiency, institutional support, international market access, value chain linkages, branding strategies and sustainable production practices is assessed in light of the global value chain concept and export competition analysis framework.

A mixed research method was adopted in the study. Primary data was collected through structured questionnaires conducted among silk producer exporters and related industries and stakeholders, supported by policy document review and expert interviews. Structural equation modeling was applied to verify hypothesized relationships, and qualitative data analysis provided contextual interpretation of the study. The results of this study indicate that the use of modern technology, efficiency improvement, effective linkages in the value chain and strong brand recognition significantly increase silk export performance.  In addition, environmental standards and international certification play an important role in accessing high-value global markets.  However, institutional constraints, lack of adequate export financing and weak branding initiatives have been identified as major constraints to export growth.

This research redefines the Silk Road concept as a new perspective on modern value chain linkages for traditional industries, enriching the existing research literature. The policy recommendations emphasize cluster-based industrial development, export incentives in specific sectors, skill development programs and sustainable certification systems, which can be helpful in increasing the international competitiveness of artisans in Bangladesh and South Asia.

 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijaemr.2026.1107