Coimbatore, July 15 (KNN) To showcase the versatility of Indian coir industry, fourth edition of the India International Coir Fair (IICF-2016) has been inaugurated today by Union MSME Minister Kalraj Mishra showcasing a wide range of coir products.

Products on display are improvised floor covering material, coir pith and its value added products, coir garden articles, coir handicraft items, coir geo-textile and coir wood.

Mishra, while addressing the inauguration, said, “Coir exports grew by 17% in value terms last fiscal compared to the previous year and the Coir Board plans to double exports in the next 3 years.”

Coir exports for 2015-16 touched 752,020 tonnes valued at Rs 1901.62 crore showing 20% rise in quantity and 17% in value from a year ago.

Products like tufted mat, coir geotextiles, handloom mattings, power loom mat and coir rugs and carpets showed rising trend in exports.

“28 countries are taking keen interest in the fourth IICF event,” Mishra said.

The US, China, Netherlands and South Korea are the main buyers of coir products from India. China is the principal buyer of coir fibre from India.

“95 individual exhibitors from across the country participated in the event. Major participants are from Tamil Nadu and Kerala, with 54 and 24 members respectively. Other states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra and Gujarat will also be a part of this event,” C P Radhakrishnan said.

People have been facilitated for their contribution to this sector with ‘Coir Mitra & Life time achievement’ Awards.

Live demonstrations on technology, production processes and applications are also a part of IICF. (KNN/FA)