"Coir products acceptability is what is needed. We need to work on that. Their look and style should be changed and they should be made more attractive (in the domestic and international markets)," the minister said.
In the 11th Plan, Rs 252 crore was allocated for coir, while in the 12th Plan it is Rs 870 crore, which shows the importance being given to the sector, he added.
Coir exports, which was Rs 597 crore five years ago, has doubled, touching Rs 1052 crore, he said at the International Coir Tech Expo here.
All efforts, he said, would be made to help those who had taken loans from banks under the 'REMOT' scheme, approved by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to modernise the coir industry by adopting modern technology in production.
Coir is a major rural industry in India, but the strength of women work force is decreasing, he said.
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the importance of coir is huge in the state, but there are challenges also.
The sector turned its face away from mechanisation, which was a big blow, he said, adding, government would give full support to workers in the sector and small entrepreneurs as both need to be protected.
A five-day exhibition of various coir products ranging from coir jackets, umbrella, bags, slippers and ornaments has been started here.
Coir board Chairman G Balachandran said to meet the fibre shortage, a fibre bank would be set up.
Delegates from abroad and from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Karnataka are among those participating in the exhibition.
