Originally from Vietnam and Cambodia, the Cham emigrated to Thailand two centuries ago. Their ancient silk-weaving craft inspired the American businessman Jim Thompson, who is widely credited with pioneering the export of Thai silk in the 1950's. Only two silk-weaving businesses remain in the Baan Krua neighbourhood of Bangkok, once the center of the Thai silk industry. The community and its craft are at risk, as a result of rising costs of living, the Covid-19 crisis, and rumoured government plans to build a road through their neighbourhood.

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Originally published on Asian Geographic.