Machinery loom weaving in Amarapura Township, Mandalay Region is in danger of being lost as production costs are rising year by year, said local weavers.

Loom weaving was traditionally practiced in the township in the past, but now the industry is on the brink of collapse as the price of raw materials is increasing and traders are controlling the price, said U Aung Min Than, a loom weaver.

“The increase in prices of raw materials and market control exercised by traders are driving the loom weaving industry to extinction, leading to labour shortages and lower profits. In addition, professionals are worried about passing on their skills to the next generation,” he added. — Aung Phyo Kyaw

(Translated by Kyaw Zin Tun)