Hanging by a Thread

Cambodia’s tradition of silk production is one that dates back as far as the 13th century. A long-standing symbol of status for the rich and the country, ancient Angkorian silk producing Cambodia bore unique weaving and reeling techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation and exist to this very day. But since the horrifying Khmer Rouge regime more than 40 years ago all but eliminated silk farming, the sector has been slow to recover and has fallen behind other regional producers using more modern and efficient systems. As a result, many silk experts and weavers believe that the age old tradition may be on its last threads. “The reality is that the Cambodian silk industry, especially silk thread production, is having trouble right now and that is a shame for a country that used to have great reputation with its unique yellow cocoon called ‘golden silk’,” said fashion designer Eric Raisina, who owns high-end clothing stores in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. …

http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/320823/hanging-by-a-thread