Kerala's five sectors register mixed performance

Kochi, Nov 18 (UNI) The top five industry sectors of Kerala, rubber, coir, tourism, food processing and chemicals and fertilisers have registered a mixed bag of performance for the first half of the fiscal.

According to a Monitor Survey conducted by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) - Southern Region, the steep rise in raw material prices and the non-availability of skilled labour were adversely affecting the interests of the rubber industry.

The increase in fuel prices, power and transportation, had increased the production cost and the industry was expecting favourable policies from the State Government.

The production of rubber has increased by two to three per cent, sales three per cent and capacity utilisation levels by two per cent when compared to the preceeding six months from October, 2007 to March, 2008.

Rising raw material prices, including that of brown fibre, were also plaguing the coir industry. The industry leaders demanded reduction of fuel prices and urged the Government to provide uninterrupted power to the industry.

The tourism industry expects an increase in inflow of tourists up to 20 per cent, revenue by 10-15 per cent and occupancy rate 20 per cent. The captains of the industry urged the Government to improve road infrastructure. The industry also sought Government's support in promoting the cultural and heritage value of Kerala to other countries through road shows and exhibitions.

The food processing industry of Kerala has registered a growth of two percent and sales rose by same rate during this period, compared to October, 2007-March, 2008.

Kerala's chemical and fertilisers industry also experienced mixed trend during the period.

UNI MA KVV 1905