New Delhi, Nov 27: Textiles minister R L Jalappa is upbeat about achieving and even exceeding the wool and woollens export target for 1997-98. He has based his optimism on the performance of this sector in the first five months of the same year.

Addressing the export award function of the Wool and Woollen Export Promotion Council in Delhi on Wednesday, Jalappa noted that exports had shot up from Rs 660 crore in 1995-96 to a record level of Rs 1,036 crore in 1996-97, indicating a growth of 56 per cent in rupee terms.

He indicated that the request of the council for complete quota administration by itself for wool and woollen items was being examined and a decision on this would be taken shortly. A number of measures had been taken by the government to boost exports of wool and woollens, he added.

Referring to the planned phase-out of quota restrictions under the multi-fibre arrangement, the minister said there would be stiff competition all over the world to capture potential markets.

He urged exporters to strengthen their network to tap the existing as well as new markets. The woollen industry had, in fact, penetrated the highly sophisticated markets like West Europe and North America, Jalappa said, adding that the government had been supporting the exporters by simplifying procedures and removing hurdles to exports.

On indigenous wool production, Jalappa said it was unfortunate that substantial quantities had to be imported to meet the requirement particularly for export purposes. The decision in the last budget to reduce the import duty on apparel grade wool, wool waste and woollen rags was certainly a relief to the industry, he said.

Jalappa congratulated the award winners for their excellent performance in 1995-96 and 1996-97 and exuded confidence that the council would continue to play a dynamic role in helping the industry achieve greater heights during the current year.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.