Given the limitations of the natural fibres, the share of synthetics in global textiles trade is on the rise which shows a strong consumer preference for synthetics, Mr Gupta said. Addressing the council members at the annual general meeting last week, Mr Gupta said the production set ups in many of the leading textile producing countries have been restructured in favour of high value specialised items and hence these countries now increasingly meet their requirements through imports offering greater opportunities for India.

Reflecting this overall trend, India's exports of synthetic and rayon textiles last fiscal has been at a record high of Rs 4.922 crore, almost 21 per cent higher than the previous year. Of the total, fabrics constituted 43 per cent followed by yarn exports (33 per cent) made ups 21 per cent and fibre around three per cent.

During the first five months of the current financial year (April-August 2000), exports of synthetic textiles was over 15 per cent higher compared to the corresponding period last year. "Non-tariff barriers, however, posed a grave danger in achieving the target," Mr Gupta said. "Against this scenario, the exporters need to work for higher price realisation of their products."