Production costs of the fresh silk cocoons for the north-western region of Argentina.

摘要

The history of natural silk production in Argentina was interrupted 50 years ago. Today, it is seen as an alternative activity in broad areas of the country as it can entail the diversification of rural productions, making possible the use of a renewable natural resource (mulberry) and the generation of jobs with low training requirements. This study was conducted to analyse the production costs of small integrated producers from the north-western region of Argentina, oriented towards achieving enough annual cocoon production volume to be used in a future local spinning mill. This economic analysis clearly shows that the price the industry is willing to pay does not cover production costs. As regards profitability rates, a favourable scenario would require $ 15/kg cocoon, while this value is not considered appropriate by domestic industrial consumers, who would be willing to pay $ 5/kg or less, the international price. Primary production of integrated small producers should be complemented with other activities, which would allow the fibre to reach the end consumer and develop the potential of this industry. That is why the integration with other links of the productive chain is of paramount importance and should be approached from an artisan craftsmanship view. This integration will make a contribution to regional development as it will allow to obtain silk finished products to be offered to the ever increasing amount of tourists visiting this country..