Date:09/11/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/11/09/stories/2005110900381200.htm

Back ANRPC meet to focus on progress of small growers

Our Bureau

Kochi , Nov. 8

THE Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) is organising an international conference here on `Progress and Development of Rubber Small Holders' on November 10 and 11.

The Kerala Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy, will inaugurate the conference, the Rubber Board said in a statement on Tuesday. Around 200 delegates from major rubber producing countries are expected to participate in the conference.

Development and management of smallholdings, which account for 80 per cent of world's natural rubber production, will be discussed during the conference. Other issues such as improving productivity, use of resources, dissemination of research findings and sustainable plantations will also be debated.Representatives from India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, China, Cambodia and Vietnam will participate in the event, Rubber Board said.