The interaction brought together leading coir exporters, innovators, and industry veterans from across the country to discuss strategies for expanding the reach of India’s traditional coir sector. The Vice-President commended the coir industry’s journey of resilience and innovation, noting that it has withstood economic challenges while embracing eco-friendly production methods.
During his address, Shri Radhakrishnan recalled his tenure as Chairman of the Coir Board from 2016 to 2020, a period that witnessed a significant rise in exports due to policy reforms and better coordination among stakeholders. “The coir sector reflects the true spirit of Indian entrepreneurship blending tradition, skill, and sustainability,” he said.
Coir: A Symbol of Sustainability
Highlighting coir’s eco-friendly nature, the Vice-President described it as a powerful symbol of India’s commitment to sustainable development. He pointed out that in a world increasingly turning to biodegradable and renewable materials, coir has immense potential to become a preferred global alternative to synthetic fibers.
“Coir represents the values of environmental responsibility and local craftsmanship. We must leverage this advantage to make Indian coir synonymous with sustainability and quality worldwide,” Shri Radhakrishnan remarked.
Blending Tradition with Technology
The Vice-President underscored the importance of integrating modern technology and branding strategies into coir production. He encouraged exporters to adopt scientific processing techniques, advanced packaging, and digital marketing tools to expand market access and meet international standards.
“To compete globally, we must blend traditional knowledge with modern technology. Branding, innovation, and quality control are the keys to making Indian coir products world leaders,” he emphasized.
FICEA’s Role in Strengthening the Coir Industry
Praising the efforts of the Federation of Indian Coir Exporters’ Associations (FICEA), Shri Radhakrishnan said that the organization plays a crucial role in uniting exporters, safeguarding their interests, and promoting collaborative growth. He lauded FICEA’s initiatives in boosting exports and fostering partnerships with global buyers.
He urged the association to focus on developing modern design clusters, international collaborations, and global trade fairs to showcase India’s coir craftsmanship on the world stage.
Expanding Global Market Presence
India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of coir and coir products, contributing significantly to rural employment, especially in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and coastal regions. The Vice-President noted that countries in Europe, North America, and Asia are increasingly seeking sustainable materials a trend that can open vast new opportunities for Indian exporters.
“We must aim to make Indian coir products visible in every global market from home décor and eco-friendly packaging to automotive and construction applications,” he said. “Our vision should be to make ‘Indian Coir’ a global brand of trust, quality, and innovation.”
Commitment to Future Growth
Concluding his remarks, the Vice-President expressed confidence in the coir sector’s ability to adapt, innovate, and excel in the international arena. He said that with robust leadership, research-backed strategies, and the dedication of workers and entrepreneurs, the coir industry can set new benchmarks for sustainable manufacturing.
The interaction also featured discussions on skill development, export facilitation, and research collaborations aimed at developing new coir-based products suited for international markets.