Abstract
We analyzed the transformation to higher-value silk products after World War II from the aspects of product mix, price, and quality. Silk production shifted in favor of higher-value products until the 1970s, and the average price of silk products increased faster than commodity prices until then, but more slowly thereafter, with distinct volatility. The average silk yarn content of silk products decreased substantially during the 1970s, implying a decline in quality in terms of traditional criteria. The transformation to higher-value silk products was not necessarily accompanied by increases in price and quality, and some production areas could maintain price increases despite substantial volatility in average market prices.
