Bs Reporter / Kochi August 1, 2008, 22:14 IST

Exports of coir and coir-based products in the first quarter of the financial year increased 7.83 per cent to 45,038 tonnes from 41,766 tonnes in the corresponding quarter last year. Earnings increased marginally by 1.99 per cent from Rs 127.10 crore to Rs 129.64 crore in Q1.

AC Jose, chairman of the Coir Board, said the first quarter performance had built a strong momentum.

"It gives us confidence that we are on the right track. Though rupee appreciation prevailed, we could sustain an attractive growth rate,' he added.