It's Coir All the Way

Coir bouquets, necklaces, rings and earrings have overwhelmed visitors at the Coir Expo in Alappuzha. "Coir bouquets are all set to give bouquets made out of natural flowers a run for its money," said K.M. Muhammed Anil, managing director of the Kerala State Cooperative Coir Marketing Federation (Coirfed).

He said there was a ready market for coir products in Kerala.

"Once coir bouquets take roots in the state, we will explore markets in other parts of the country and abroad," he said, adding that each bouquet will cost Rs.75-100.

The prototype of the bouquet has been developed with the support of NABARD.

"This is among several innovative projects approved as part of our diversification plan," Anil added.

Among other value-added products from Coirfed at this year’s coir expo are a range of ornaments. "These ornaments have been getting a lot of eyeballs. We are hopeful of making these innovative coir ornaments a commercial success," he said.

The ornaments, like necklace, ring and earring, have a price range of Rs.750-1,000.

The coir products are eco-friendly and enjoy a ready market in Kerala.

Coirfed plans to go for exports also.

"But before launching the products in the international market, we have to set some standards," he said. "In the US and European countries, the quality standards are very high. We have to take this factor into account."

Source-IANS