Raw raccoon skins have gained popularity in the fashion world, in past five years, as raw material for fur clothing.
In 2002, this variety of fur was considered almost similar to the valuable fox fur and the prices stood within the range of around 1200 yuan per skin.
Meanwhile, then the breeding cost of one raccoon was only about 100 yuan.
Recognizing the lucrative market, many farmers shifted to raccoon bearing. With the growing availability the prices fell and by 2004 rates were 230 yuan or so a piece.
Later, while raccoon skin was priced at around 400 yuan in 2005, and 2006 saw a fluctuating trend and rates ranged around 200 yuan per piece.
In 2007 the production of raccoon skins skyrocketed and the price plummet to record low at only 100 yuan.
The market has not recovered this year. Infact, raccoon farmers are in for a real test as the breeding costs around 170 yuan but the skins are quoted at only 100-130 yuan.