TNAG-0160-FCO40-196-Exports-of-textiles-to-Norway-1969 — Page 164

0003230

G.F. 323

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· 2 ·

Cotton suits and jackets

1968 (Jan.-March) 1969 (Jan.-March) (Value in '000 Kroners)

252

Non-cotton suits and jackets

94

Non-cotton slacks

94

423

793

511

On the other hand, imports of cotton blouses and non-cotton skirts and dresses were decreasing. Mr. Jordan remarked that as only the value of imports was quoted, it was not possible to tell the changes in terms of quantity. It would be a good sign if an increase in value of imports meant increased unit prices. Mr. Rønning said that whilst he could not quote the quantity of imports at the time, he would bear it in mind to have the data available in the next round of consultations.

3.

Referring to the licensing records of cotton slacks (under restraint), Mr. Jordan said that the slow rate of exports reflected a limitation on demand. Mr. Rønning said this might be due to seasonal fluctuation in demand. Mr. Jordan thought that exports of this item were unlikely to reach the level of restraint. He said that if the question of an extension of the present agreement was to be considered there would be no point in continuing the restraint on an item if exports were well under the restraint level. Mr. Rønning said he could understand Hong Kong's point of view, but to the Norwegian industry, the levels were considered very high. Mr. Jordan also observed that cotton skirts and nightgarments which were under restraint and blouses which were under Export Authorisations were not doing at all well. He said that demand for blouses, whether cotton or non-cotton was falling off in many countries and it was due to a change in fashion. Mr. Rønning agreed with these observations. As to cotton suits, Mr. Jordan said the increase in the value of imports was not too high and this could well be a result of increased unit value. He admitted that Hong Kong was doing well in non-cotton suits, jackets and coats and non-cotton slacks, which were under Export Authorisations. He asked what was the market like for these items. Mr. Rønning said that whereas in 1967 and 1968, total imports increased, in the first quarter in 1969, total imports declined but imports from Hong Kong increased. Mr. Jordan remarked that the Norwegian industry should not be disturbed with the situation as Hong Kong's improvement at the expense of other suppliers caused them no damage. Mr. Ronning referred to the decline in production and orders for these items. Mr. Jordan said that in view of the decline in production and total imports as well as a decline in orders, there was a decline in demand. Mr. Rønning agreed with this argument. Mr. Jordan thought the same thing was happening to cotton suits under Export Authorisations. Mr. Rønning said he could not quote any production figures as their statistics were out of date. As to non-cotton skirts, under Export Authorisations, Mr. Jordan said there should be no worry on this item.

4.

Referring to the knitwear items, Mr. Fletcher said the restraint agreement was working satisfactorily. Compared with 1968, imports from Hong Kong in the first quarter of 1969 of knitted cotton undergarments for infants and women's and girls'

/wool and

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