The International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) is committed to promoting and supporting the global sheep and wool industries. However, we also know that sheep are not the only sources of natural fibre in the world. As a result, we are enthusiastic supporters of the camelid industry.
Camelids are a biological family of even-toed ungulates that includes Bactrian camels, dromedaries, llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. These animals are of tremendous importance for many communities and economies around the world, particularly in the Middle East and South America. Some camelids, such as alpacas, are sources of high-quality natural fibres on much the same level as sheep’s wool. In fact, the two fibres are often blended to create unique fabrics and garments.
Alongside the global sheep and wool industry, the camelid industry serves as an excellent source of natural, sustainable fibres.
The International Year of the Camelids
In recognition of the importance of these animals and the people who farm them, the United Nations and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) declared 2024 to be the International Year of the Camelids. The purpose of this was to raise public awareness about the economic and cultural importance of camelids.
As the FAO says, “camelids contribute to food security, nutrition and economic growth as well as holding a strong cultural significance for communities around the world.”
Recognising the importance of these animals can help to increase research and provide support and funding for conservation and sustainable management practices, for the benefit of camelid farming communities, global biodiversity, and the food and clothing industries.
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Exploring Other Natural Fibres
Although the economic and cultural importance of camelids is multifaceted, the IWTO is particularly interested in the role they play in the market for natural fibres. Of all the different camelid species, alpacas are the best known for producing wool that is very similar in quality and application to that produced by sheep.
The annual Alpaca Fiesta is held in Peru, and this year’s edition was a particularly special one because it happened with the support of the International Year of the Camelids. Hosted in the city of Arequipa from 21 to 26 October, Alpaca Fiesta 2024 had considerable international support for its efforts to generate awareness about the importance of alpaca fibres.
The Fiesta showcases every aspect of this unique industry, from the animals themselves and the practices of their carers to innovative fashions created using alpaca wool. The entire alpaca value chain was celebrated and promoted for six days, through events such as workshops, a textile fair, a business conference, clothing and apparel shows, and various livestock activities.
The festival provided powerful affirmation for the many people around the world whose livelihoods depend on camelids. For us as role players in the international market for natural, sustainable fibres, it provides an opportunity to look beyond our primary focus of sheep’s wool. It also helps us to remember that producing these beautiful fibres contributes to the health of the environment and the prosperity of the communities that have been raising these incredible animals for generations.
Learn All You Need to Know About the International Wool Industry
For more information on the wool industry around the world, take a look at our fact sheets, statistics and guidelines, or visit our website.
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