KOTTAYAM, SEPT 12:
Natural rubber production during the current fiscal (2013-2014) is likely to be lower than initial estimates, said Ms Sheela Thomas, Chairman, Rubber Board.
She was delivering the presidential address at the 172nd meeting of the Rubber Board held at Kottayam.
RAIN IMPACT
Intensive rain and the widespread incidence of abnormal leaf fall are the reasons for decline in production.
However, the increase in tapped area from 5,04,000 hectares (ha) in 2012-2013 to 5,18,000 ha in 2013-14 and the higher level of moisture content in the soil may increase the production in the coming months.
The projected closing stock of rubber in 2013 -14 is 2,70,000 tonnes, said the Chairman.
Domestic production during April – August 2013 is 2,65,000 tonnes.
Consumption during this period was 4,08,805 tonnes.
Consumption for 2013-14 is projected at 9,45,000 tonnes. Imports and exports in April-August 2013 were 1,28,465 and 2,319 tonnes, respectively.
According to the report from the International Rubber Study Group, the world production of rubber during April to August declined by 0.9 per cent owing mainly to adverse weather conditions.
GROWTH IN CONSUMPTION
The growth in rubber consumption during the period was minimal at 1.1 per cent.
World economy is beset with challenges of economic recession and geopolitical concerns.
The present situation indicates that the market is likely to remain volatile, the Chairman said.
The Board evaluated the activities since the last meeting in Guwahati in April.
Source: The Hindu
