Bringing the past to the future

Shu brocade is one of the oldest known embroidery styles in China. It was introduced to central Asia and Rome about 2,000 years ago through the Silk Road and became hugely popular. Now, the age-old art is being revived and adapted into fashion. A company is making luxury shoes from silk and imported Italian leather, costing between 300 and 2,000 US dollars, and they're entirely handmade. The company now sells to Europe, and with customers demanding prompt delivery, the Belt and Road Initiative has made this export of fashion products possible. Compared to sea freight, rail freight is three times faster, so it is more efficient. This brings Shu brocade to the international stage and redefines what it means to be "Made in China," but in a fast and cost-efficient manner.