The 2009 China International Silk Expo, alongside the China International Women's Wear Exhibition, kicked off in Hangzhou, drawing over 30,000 overseas buyers to the West Lake area. As the decade-long Sibo Fair continued to bring global attention, the "Silk House" brand—symbolizing the national strategy of "east-west movement"—was quietly preparing for a stunning transformation. Dongshang West moved to Hangzhou to revitalize its strength, as the city proudly claims its title of "Silk House."
Historically, Hangzhou’s silk industry has been legendary. The Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi once wrote, “Silk sleeves weave Damask Chi Di, Qing Qi wine to take pear,†capturing the elegance and high standards of Hangzhou’s silk craftsmanship. The old silk villages along Qinghe Square still bear witness to the golden era of the silk economy.
However, the Ministry of Commerce's "East-West Movement" strategy brought both challenges and opportunities. The plan aimed to gradually shift main cocoon production from eastern regions like Zhejiang to the central and western parts of China, where land and labor costs are lower, and natural conditions are more favorable for sericulture. According to Vice Mayor Shen Jian, this move is crucial for maintaining China’s position as a global silk powerhouse. For Hangzhou, it’s a test of adaptability and innovation.
"Adapting to industrial restructuring is a trend," Shen said. "Hangzhou silk, which flourished during the Tang and Song dynasties and was sold along the Silk Road to Europe and the United States, should now focus on new product development and technological research to become a leading textile and garment center."
The combination of "Silk House" and "Women's Capital" has become a powerful branding strategy for Hangzhou. The integration of silk and women’s fashion has created a unique identity, enhancing the city’s image as a beautiful and culturally rich place.
After the financial crisis, the 2009 Working Conference on Silk and Women’s Clothing Development pushed Hangzhou to strengthen its textile and clothing industry. With over 2,200 apparel companies and an annual output value of 178.2 billion yuan, the city has a strong foundation. Companies like Daly and South China Plain represent the pinnacle of Hangzhou’s textile capabilities.
To support the industry, Hangzhou allocated 20 million yuan annually, aiming to promote the sector nationwide. In 2008, the city had 607 large-scale silk and women’s clothing enterprises, generating 25.665 billion yuan in output and 1.488 billion yuan in profit. This sector remains a key competitive advantage for the city.
Cultivating top designers is vital for building strong brands. Since 2007, Hangzhou has launched the "China Outstanding Women’s Designer Discovery Program," aiming to train high-end talents over ten years. So far, a multi-level talent development system has been established.
Thanks to these efforts, 15 Hangzhou designers have earned the title of "Top Ten Designers in China." Three of them have opened studios with government support. Notably, six Hangzhou designers were sent to study at the Italian Institute of European Design for 15 months.
As *The New York Times* once noted, "The silk industry holds deep practical and symbolic importance for China. It is not only the country’s oldest export commodity but also one of the most closely linked inventions to its national identity and foreign trade."
Since the 4,700-year-old Liangzhu silk fabric discovery, Hangzhou has been recognized as an essential hub in China’s silk industry. Today, by blending modern innovation with ancient traditions, the city is forging a new "Silk Road."
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