Switzerland

Silk once played an important role in Switzerland's economy. From the 16th century onwards, Zurich developed into one of Europe's leading centres of silk manufacturing, with a flourishing silk weaving and textile industry. Historical records indicate that around 300,000 mulberry trees were planted in the Lausanne region alone in 1785. Before the First World War, the last cocoons were produced in southern Switzerland.

After an interruption of almost 100 years, swiss silk launched an initiative in 2009 to reintroduce silk production in Switzerland. Today, the complete silk value chain has been re-established – from mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing to silk processing and the manufacture of finished products. The initiative creates an additional source of income for Swiss farmers while strengthening the country's traditional textile industry with a sustainable, locally produced natural fibre.

The Swiss model is based on close cooperation between agriculture, textile manufacturers, product developers and research institutions. All production steps are fully traceable and follow strict production guidelines to ensure high quality, environmental responsibility and animal welfare standards. The project also follows the principles of a circular economy by making use of by-products wherever possible.

Main activities

• Decentralised cultivation of white mulberry trees throughout Switzerland.
• Decentralised silkworm rearing and cocoon production on Swiss farms.
• Centralised cocoon drying and silk processing, including silk reeling and spun silk production.
• Development and manufacture of high-quality textiles, accessories, cosmetics and medical applications.
• Marketing and sale of products made from Swiss silk.
• Collaboration with farmers, textile companies and research institutions across Europe to promote innovation and knowledge exchange.

To date, more than 8,000 mulberry trees have been planted, and around 250 kg of fresh cocoons are produced annually (2025). Swiss silk operates its own silk processing centre near Bern, where cocoons are dried and processed into reeled and spun silk. The organisation continues to expand the production network and demonstrates that high-quality silk production can once again become part of a sustainable European bioeconomy.

 

 

Local sericulture institution:
swiss silk - Vereinigung Schweizer Seidenproduzenten
Mr. Ueli Ramseier, President
Dorfmärit 11
CH – 3065 Bolligen
Tel. 079 436 85 53
E-Mail: info@swiss-silk.ch
Web: www.swiss-silk.ch