Yizhou district, Hechi city, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has recently been honored as an Advantageous Area for Distinct Chinese Agricultural Products, once again confirming its strength in the cultivation of silkworm cocoons.

A total of 84 areas have received the title, according to a joint announcement made by the Ministry of Agriculture, the State Forestry and Grassland Administration, the National Development and Reform Commission, and other organizations.

Silkworms must be kept in a warm, dry environment. [Photo by Wei Kewen / Hechi Daily]

The Yizhou silkworm cocoon is a Nationally Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) product and was named one of the Top 100 Regional Agricultural Public Brands in Guangxi.

Yizhou enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with adequate sunshine and abundant rainfall.

In 2018, the district's 361,900 mu (24,126 hectares) of mulberry fields produced 59,900 tons of raw cocoons and brought in 2.98 billion yuan ($440 million) in revenue.

Well-known products from the area include "Hongji" white steam silk filaments and "Liusanjie" silk quilts. Last year, Hechi Oriental Silkroad Silk Co and Guangxi Sililai Co exported $28 million and $98 million, respectively, in self-produced white steam filatures.

In 2018, the total value of sericulture production, silk processing, comprehensive utilization of resources, and trade in Yizhou District exceeded 8.5 billion yuan.

A sea of mulberry trees in a demonstration development zone. [Photo by Wei Kewen / Hechi Daily]

Silkworms are one of the main industries in Yizhou district, Hechi. [Photo by Wei Kewen / Hechi Daily]