Some concern was expressed at the weakening of demand for carpets which had occurred during 1997, and at competition at the lower end of the market. Good quality sisal yarn required for carpet making had been in short supply, which added to the difficulties faced by carpet makers. Demand for other products such as sisal dartboards was stable. The Consultation reviewed the situation in the various producing countries. Privatization of the industry in Tanzania had been completed, and a small regulatory body was to be established by the end of 1997.
Brazilian production is directed towards the baler twine market in the United States.
Import demand for abaca in 1997 had been lower in the United States and the United Kingdom than in 1996, but stronger in Japan. It was noted that the capacity to produce coir far exceeded the demand. The export market for coir fibre had weakened in 1997, and prices had fallen. The use of brown fibre in mattresses in the United States, as well as in Europe, had contracted considerably. Demand for coir yarn was also reported to have weakened, although sales of some products, such as PVC-backed coir mats, had expanded.