Types and Trade Characteristics of Textile Products Imported from Japan during the Port-Opening Era -Focusing on Cotton, Silk, and Woollen Cloths-

This study examines the types of cotton, silk, and woollen products imported from Japan during the portopening period and explores the characteristics of import trade related to these textile products. Data were obtained from the Japanese trade statistics published by the Japanese government between the late 19^th and the early 20^th centuries. Several key findings were made from these data. First, at least 24 types of cotton fabrics, 13 silk fabrics, and 16 woollen fabrics imported from Japan were identified. Several types of weaves that can be found in the present day were also identified. Second, the total import of textiles during the port-opening period made up 33.7% of the total imports from Japan, indicating that textiles were an important aspect of import trade with Japan. The value of textile imports from Japan tended to increase overall during this time. Cotton fabrics and silk fabrics showed a tendency to increase continuously, while woollen fabrics showed a trend of gradual increase over repeating periods of increase and decrease. It is apparent from examining the ratio of Japanese and foreign products that cotton fabrics, silk fabrics, and woollen fabrics show different characteristics.