Coir exports cross Rs 600 crore mark

KOCHI: Despite a strengthening rupee, the coir export touched an all time-high level of Rs 605.17 crore for 2006-07 showing an increase of 19% in value terms.

The export quantity at 1,68,755 tonnes recorded a rise of 24%. In dollar terms the export value stood at $137.5 million.

Coir Board chairman A C Jose said the exports surpassed the target of Rs 572 crore ($130 million). In 2005-06, coir exports had touched 1,36,026 tonnes valued at Rs 508.44 crore.

The US is the single largest market with a share of more than 37% of the total export. European countries together share more than 41% of the export while 22% is shared by the remaining countries.

The door mats and mattings comprised the bulk of the exports. The export of rubberized coir and tufted mat using PVC and rubber bases registered significant increase. For 2007-08, the board has set a target of Rs 660 crore or $165 million. ``The strong rupee is expected to hit coir exports hard unless the Commerce Ministry chips in with some help,’’ Mr Jose said.

The board is making efforts to beef up the domestic market for coir products, which at present is pegged at Rs 150 crore, he said. The board is hoping to bring maximum number of buyers from abroad and across the country for the India International coir fair slated to be held in Alappuzha in December 2007.