Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Management, Economic Engineering in Agriculture and rural development", Vol. 19 ISSUE 4
Written by Agatha POPESCU, Elena STOIAN, Valentin ȘERBAN

The paper analyzed the trends in natural fiber production pointing out the changes in silk and wool production, export and import worldwide and in the main producing, exporting and importing countries in the period 2007-2018 using official statistical data which were processed using Fixed Index, Trend Method based on polynomial and linear models, Descriptive statistics, and comparisons. The production of natural fibers was 111.3 million tons, representing 35 % of the global fiber production. Cotton accounts for 80 % of the natural fiber output, while wool 3.3% and silk 0.2 %. The demand for natural fibers is increasing due their special qualities which satisfy the best people desire to wear and use natural things and the large range of products which could be obtained. In 2018, the world silk output was 159,648 metric tons by 32.11 % more than in 2007. China and India produce 97.19 % of the world silk output, and also are exporting and importing countries. The USA, Italy, Japan, India, France, China, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany are the principal importing countries. The global wool production (clean) declined from 1,202 thousand tons in 2007 to 1,155 thousand tons in 2018, due to the reduction of sheep population and new orientation to meat production. The main wool (clean) producing countries are: Australia, China, New Zealand, CIS, Argentina, United Kingdom, South Africa and Uruguay. The consumption is represented by 48 % apparel wool, 31 % interior textiles and 21% industrial wool. Australia exports garments, sweaters, men suits and women overcoats, China exports yarn and knitwear, Italy is the 2nd exporter of wool yarn, fabric, men’s and women’s woven wear and knitwear, India is the largest exporter of carpets and rugs, the United Kingdom is profiled on fabric, knitwear, women’s wear and carpets. The main importing countries of wool products are: the United Kingdom, Italy, the USA, Japan, China, Australia, and Germany. As a conclusion, natural fibers of animal origin are desired by consumers and their increasing demand stimulates producers and traders to intensify their business to better satisfy clients' needs.

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