Qian Zhan Wang·2025-05-22 09:12Core Viewpoint - The Chinese silk industry is focusing on green production and enhancing product performance to meet diverse consumer demands in 2024, with significant investments in research and development by leading companies [1][3][11]. Group 1: R&D Focus Areas - Leading companies are concentrating on developing eco-friendly materials, antibacterial fibers, multifunctional high-strength fibers, and biodegradable materials [1][3]. - Innovations in dyeing processes, such as waterless dyeing technology and silk fabric color retention techniques, are being prioritized to achieve environmentally friendly production [1][3]. - New technologies are being developed to enhance consumer comfort, including cooling techniques for silk quilts and wrinkle-resistant, UV-protective silk products [1][3]. Group 2: R&D Investments - Aimer Co., Ltd. has a research and development investment exceeding 100 million yuan, reaching 122.85 million yuan in 2024, while other listed companies have investments below 100 million yuan [3]. - Taihu Snow and Wanshili have relatively low R&D investments of 22.69 million yuan and 36.80 million yuan, respectively, but maintain leading R&D intensities of 4.4% and 5.1% [3]. Group 3: Patent Application Trends - Recent trends show a decline in patent applications in the silk industry, with a significant drop in 2022, indicating a shift in focus towards experimental applications [6][8]. - As of May 11, 2025, there are 126 silk-related patent applications and 1,129 valid patents in China, with the majority concentrated in medical and cosmetic formulations [6][8][10]. Group 4: AI Integration in the Industry - The silk industry is undergoing a transformation with the integration of digital and intelligent technologies, aiming for high-quality development [11]. - Companies like Dali Silk and Wanshili are leveraging AI for digital upgrades in design and production, significantly reducing production cycles and enhancing efficiency [11][13]. - Taihu Snow is utilizing AI to accelerate new product promotion and improve marketing efficiency through intelligent design elements [11][13].