If you're sourcing silk from China, you've likely heard of Nanchong — a city with 3,000 years of silk heritage. But recent developments, reported by Xinhua News, show that this historic silk capital is undergoing a modern transformation that directly benefits small fashion brands and designers.
As your silk friend based right here in Nanchong, I want to share what's happening on the ground — and why it matters for your next collection.
A Thriving Industry, Backed by Data
The numbers speak for themselves. According to the Xinhua report, Nanchong's Yilong County alone has built approximately 70,000 mu (over 11,500 acres) of mulberry plantations. In 2025, the county produced 3,800 tons of silkworm cocoons and over 300 tons of raw silk, with the entire industry chain generating 1.1 billion RMB in value.
But what's most exciting for buyers is the quality. Local mills like Sichuan Bushi Silk are now producing 6A grade raw silk — the highest commercial grade available — and exporting it to regions along the Belt and Road. This isn't just any silk; it's world-class material that meets the most demanding standards for luxury garments and accessories.
Full-Chain Control Means Consistency
One of the biggest challenges for small brands is supply chain inconsistency — your fabric might arrive from different mills with varying quality lot to lot. Nanchong is solving this by building fully integrated industry chains. Yilong County now has a complete system covering:
- Mulberry planting and silkworm rearing
- Silk reeling and weaving
- Dyeing and garment manufacturing
- Export and trade
This vertical integration means better traceability and consistent quality — exactly what you need when ordering 100 meters or 500 meters. From the cocoon to the finished roll, every step happens within the same controlled ecosystem.
Beyond Raw Silk: A Diversified Industry
The "Silk+" model is also creating more options for buyers. Local companies are expanding into:
- Finished garments and silk bedding — Sichuan Shuncheng Textile produces 8.5 million meters of silk fabric annually, exporting to 50+ countries
- Mulberry-derived products — tea, dried mulberry fruit, and other value-added agricultural goods
- Cultural and design products — Shuhui silk paintings and museum-grade exhibition pieces
While Silk.Sale focuses on fabric sourcing, this diversification signals a mature, innovative industry that can adapt to your specific needs — whether that's standard satin, custom prints, or certified sustainable options.
Why This Matters for Your Brand
Reliable Supply
With government support and modern infrastructure, Nanchong mills are stable long-term partners. Agricultural experts on the ground help farmers maintain consistent cocoon quality — which translates directly to consistent yarn for your orders.
Grade Transparency
Local producers are achieving 6A grade certification at scale. When you work with me, I personally verify that every roll you receive matches this standard — with a video report and tamper-proof label on every shipment.
Small-Batch Flexibility
Despite large-scale production numbers, many Nanchong mills have adapted to serve smaller brands. Traditional craftsmanship combined with modern management means you can start with 100 meters per color — without compromising quality.
Direct Access, No Middlemen
With over 20 processing enterprises and a growing export infrastructure, you can source factory-direct. I help you navigate this network, inspect every roll, and apply anti-counterfeit labels — so you get mill-direct pricing with guaranteed quality.
Looking Ahead
The Xinhua report highlights Nanchong's focus on "expanding quality, developing foreign trade, and empowering through technology." For buyers, this translates to:
- More certified, high-grade options becoming available each season
- Improved logistics and export processes cutting lead times
- Innovative fabric products that help your brand stand out
I walk into these mills every week. I see 6A grade silk being reeled, automated looms weaving satin and crepe, and inspection teams checking every roll. And I'm here to do the same for you — find, inspect, seal, and ship.
I find. I check. You relax.